Tinubu Mourns Ex-Eagles Goalkeeper Peter Rufai
Bola Tinubu has said that former Super Eagles goalkeeper Peter Rufai wrote his name in gold in the sporting annals of Nigeria and the African continent.
In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu paid tribute to the football icon, fondly remembered by fans as “Dodomayana”.
The football legend passed away on Thursday at the age of 61.
“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,” Tinubu said.
“He followed up with Nigeria’s equally epoch-making, first appearance at the FIFA World Cup competition, dubbed USA ’94.”
Tinubu said the late footballer’s legacy would live on in the hearts of Nigerians and football lovers worldwide.
He also highlighted Rufai’s involvement in the 1998 World Cup in France and noted his pioneering role in professionalising Nigerian football, having plied his trade in Belgium, the Netherlands, Portugal and Spain.
“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… bringing honour to the nation and opening a new window of opportunities for young footballers in Nigeria,” he said.
Beyond his footballing achievements, Rufai, a prince of the royal family in Idimu, Lagos, was lauded for his efforts in mentoring the next generation through his Staruf Football Academy. “He continued to inspire, mentor and nurture young footballers,”Tinubu said.
Tributes have continued to pour in from across the football and political landscapes. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar described Rufai’s passing as a “profound loss”.
“Peter Rufai’s remarkable contributions to the beautiful game will always be remembered, and he will be sorely missed,” Atiku said.
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Super Eagles forward Ahmed Musa also penned an emotional message: “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.”
“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.”
Rufai, who earned 65 caps for the national team, made history in 1993 by scoring for the Super Eagles in a 6–0 win against Ethiopia. His quick reflexes and acrobatic saves earned him the nickname “Dodomayana”.
Until his passing, he was also known for his passion for education, having enrolled at the National Institute for Sports in Lagos to acquire formal coaching credentials.
His death, announced the same day as the tragic passing of Liverpool star Diogo Jota in a car crash, marked a dark moment in the global football fraternity.
