Peter Rufai, the esteemed former Super Eagles goalkeeper often called “Dodo Mayana” has died at the age of 61 after a lengthy illness. The Nigerian Football Federation confirmed his passing on 3 July 2025 at a Lagos hospital.
A commanding presence between the posts, Rufai earned 65 caps for Nigeria and played a pivotal role in their 1994 Africa Cup of Nations triumph. He represented his country at the 1994 and 1998 FIFA World Cups, famously captaining the team in their 1–0 defeat to England at Wembley in 1994.
His club career spanned across Europe, featuring stints in Spain (Deportivo La Coruña, Hércules), Portugal (Farense, Gil Vicente), Belgium (Lokeren, Beveren), and the Netherlands (Go Ahead Eagles). Remarkably, Rufai joined the ranks of goalkeepers who scored internationally, converting a penalty against Ethiopia in 1993.
Beyond the pitch, he founded a goalkeeping academy in Spain and declined a royal title after his father, a tribal king of Idimu, Lagos, died in 1999. Nigerian President Bola Tinubu, former VP Atiku Abubakar, and many others paid tribute, celebrating his legacy both on and off the field.
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Rufai’s death coincided with a tragic day in global football a day that also saw the passing of Liverpool forward Diogo Jota marking a somber moment for the sport.
Editorial
We are deeply saddened by the loss of Peter Rufai a goalkeeper of extraordinary calibre and a leader who stood tall for Nigeria on the world stage. His success at the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations and his World Cup appearances helped to elevate Nigerian football globally.
We reflect on a man who chose passion over position, rejecting royal succession to pursue his love for the game. That decision resonated with many, proving that his conviction came from the heart, not heritage. His influence extended far beyond his clean sheets his academy in Spain ensured his knowledge and spirit would live on through future generations.
We recognise the power of his journey from Lagos to Europe, from national hero to mentor. That path embodied resilience and purpose, values we believe still guide Nigerian football today. We hold on to the image of “Dodo Mayana” standing firm in goal as calm, commanding, unforgettable.
May his memory inspire current and future players to carry his legacy forward, reminding us all that greatness is never simply inherited it is earned.
Did You Know?
- Rufai became one of the few goalkeepers ever to score for Nigeria, netting a penalty in a 6–0 win over Ethiopia during 1993 AFCON qualifiers.
- He captained the Super Eagles in their 1–0 loss to England at Wembley on 13 July 1994.
- After retiring, Rufai founded a goalkeeping academy in Spain in 2003 to train young talent.
- He played a part in Portugal’s Farense qualifying for the UEFA Cup for the first time during the 1994–95 season.
- He turned down the crown of his father’s kingdom in Idimu in 1999 so he could continue his football career in Spain.
