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President Tinubu, NFF, Others Lead Tributes For Peter Rufai

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President Bola Tinubu, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Super Eagles captain Ahmed Musa, and other prominent Nigerians have paid glowing tributes to former Super Eagles goalkeeper Peter Rufai, following his death on Thursday.

Rufai, aged 61, widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s greatest goalkeepers, died in the early hours of Thursday, July 3, 2025, after a prolonged illness.

His passing has sparked a wave of grief across the nation’s football community, with tributes pouring in from political figures, football authorities, former teammates, and fans, all celebrating his significant contributions to Nigerian football.

In a statement issued by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, via his official X handle, President Tinubu expressed his condolences, describing Rufai as one of Nigeria’s “patriotic sportsmen.”

The statement read, “The President condoles with the Rufai family, friends, and football enthusiasts on the demise of the inimitable goalkeeper fondly called ‘Dodomayana’ by his numerous fans and football lovers all over Nigeria.

“President Tinubu notes that Peter Rufai would be remembered as one of those patriotic sportsmen who wrote their names in gold in the sporting annals of Nigeria and the African continent.

“I recall with fond memories the heroic contributions of Peter Rufai in the historic victory of the Super Eagles at the 1994 edition of the Africa Cup of Nations in Tunisia as the first-choice goalkeeper, followed up with Nigeria’s equally epoch-making first appearance at the FIFA World Cup competition, dubbed USA ’94.

“Rufai was also a strong member of the team at the subsequent edition of the competition in France in 1998.

“Having started his career with Stationery Stores of Lagos in 1980, Rufai was one of the earliest footballers in Nigeria to go professional, playing in many European countries including Belgium, Spain, Portugal, and the Netherlands, bringing honour to the nation and opening a new window of opportunities for young footballers in Nigeria.”

The President also noted that after his retirement from active football, Rufai, a prince of the royal house in Idimu, Lagos, established the Staruf Football Academy, where he mentored and nurtured young football talents.

Tinubu prayed for comfort for all who mourn Rufai’s passing and for the repose of his soul.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar also joined the growing list of mourners, describing Rufai as a national icon whose impact on Nigerian football would never be forgotten.

“It is with deep sorrow that I mourn the passing of our legendary national team goalkeeper, Peter Rufai, popularly known as Dodomayana. His death is a profound loss to the global football community,” Atiku said.

The NFF, through its General Secretary, Dr Mohammed Sanusi, expressed shock over the news.

“This is really, really shocking. Peter Rufai dead? What happened? I am perplexed. We did not even know that he had been ill. We earnestly pray to the Almighty God to grant him eternal rest and to comfort all his loved ones as well as the entire Nigeria football family,” Sanusi said.

The official X page of the Super Eagles also paid tribute, writing, “Forever in our hearts, Dodo Mayana.

“We mourn the passing of legendary Super Eagles goalkeeper, Peter Rufai, a giant of Nigerian football and a 1994 AFCON champion.

“Your legacy lives on between the sticks and beyond. Rest well, Peter Rufai.”

Super Eagles captain Ahmed Musa also took to his X handle to mourn Rufai.

“Can’t believe I’m typing this – a post to bid farewell to a true giant of Nigerian football, Peter Rufai. Your heroic reflexes and unwavering presence between the posts brought us moments of pride on the world stage.

“May your spirit continue to inspire future generations of Super Eagles. Though you’ve left us, your legacy soars higher than any trophy. Fly high, DODOMAYANA — the nation mourns a hero.

“Condolences to your family, friends, teammates, and fans. Rest in peace, legend,” Musa wrote.

Rangers International Football Club also paid tribute to Rufai, acknowledging his impact on Nigerian football.

The club stated, “Though he never wore our colours, his legendary performances for the Super Eagles inspired generations across the nation, including countless players who proudly represent Rangers today. His impact on Nigerian football is immeasurable, and his legacy will forever be part of the story we tell our young talents.

“We honour his memory, his service, and the pride he brought to our game.”

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