Tears Flow As NFF, Odegbami, Ahmed Musa Lead Tributes To Late Goalkeeping Legend Peter Rufai

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and several notable figures in Nigerian football have expressed heartfelt tributes following the death of legendary Super Eagles goalkeeper, Peter Rufai.

Rufai, affectionately known as Dodo Mayana, passed away on Thursday, July 3, at the age of 61 after a brief illness in Lagos.

Widely remembered as the first-choice goalkeeper during Nigeria’s golden football era, Rufai was instrumental in the Super Eagles’ 1994 Africa Cup of Nations victory and represented the country at the 1994 and 1998 FIFA World Cups, where Nigeria reached the Round of 16 in both tournaments.

Announcing his death on their official X handle, the NFF wrote:
“Forever in our hearts, Dodo Mayana.
We mourn the passing of legendary Super Eagles goalkeeper, Peter Rufai. Your legacy lives on between the sticks and beyond. Rest well.”

Former Super Eagles captain, Segun Odegbami, told Punch that although Rufai had been ill and hospitalized, the news of his death was still a shock:
“I knew he was ill and had been in the hospital, but I never imagined it would end like this. I’m deeply shaken.”

Ex-international Etim Esin, a former teammate, wrote:
“Oh God! Dodo Mayana is gone. What a great loss. We played together—I’m heartbroken. My condolences to his family. May his soul rest in peace.”

Veteran goalkeeper Dele Aiyenugba paid tribute, saying:
“It’s a painful loss. I grew up admiring him. To be mentioned in the same breath as Peter Rufai is an honour. May his soul find peace.”

Super Eagles captain Ahmed Musa, currently with Kano Pillars, shared a touching post:
“I still can’t believe I’m writing this. Farewell to a giant of Nigerian football. Your bravery and talent made us proud. Though you’re gone, your legacy lives on. Fly high, Dodo Mayana—the nation mourns you.”

Also mourning his death, Nigeria Premier Football League champions, Remo Stars, posted on X:
“Everyone at Remo Stars is deeply shocked and saddened by the sudden passing of Nigerian goalkeeping legend, Peter Rufai.”