A Safe Pair of Hands, A Heavy Heart – Nigeria Bids Farewell To Peter Rufai

Nigerian football dropped into deep mourning following the death of one of its most iconic figures, Peter Rufai, the former Super Eagles goalkeeper and 1994 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) champion.

Rufai passed away at the age of 61 in Lagos on Thursday, July 3, 2025, after a brief illness, leaving a void in the hearts of Nigerian football lovers, especially fans who admired his remarkable career and contributions to the sport.

A Legendary Career Remembered

Born on August 24, 1963, Peter Rufai’s journey in football began in earnest when he made his debut for the then Green Eagles in a friendly match in December 1981.

Over the years, Rufai became a cornerstone of Nigerian football, renowned for his agility, leadership, and commanding presence between the posts.

He was instrumental in Nigeria’s quest for continental glory.

He helped the team secure silver medals at the Africa Cup of Nations in 1984 and 1988 before finally lifting the coveted trophy in Tunisia in 1994 as the first-choice goalkeeper.

Rufai’s influence extended beyond the African continent. He represented Nigeria at two FIFA World Cup tournaments, in 1994 and 1998.

On both occasions, the Super Eagles reached the round of 16, an achievement that elevated Nigeria’s status on the global football stage.

His performances in these tournaments remain etched in the memories of fans and football historians alike.

Tributes from Nigerian Football Icons and Fans

The news of Rufai’s passing was confirmed by former Nigerian midfielder Waidi Akanni, who revealed that Rufai’s body had been deposited at a Lagos hospital.

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) paid tribute to Rufai, describing him as “a giant of Nigerian football” and one of the country’s most iconic players.

On social media platform X, 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 Eagles captain Segun Odegbami expressed his shock and sadness, acknowledging that while he was aware Rufai had been ill, the news of his death was still difficult to process.

“I know he’s been ill and that he was in the hospital for a while.

“Now, I am at a loss and need to find out what has happened now,” Odegbami said.

Etim Esin, Rufai’s teammate from the 1990s, was deeply devastated by the news.

“Oh oh God! Dodo Manyana is dead.

“This is a great loss.

“We played together; I can’t imagine he’s gone; this is so sad.

“My condolence to his family and may his soul rest in peace,” Esin lamented.

Another former Super Eagles goalkeeper, Dele Aiyenugba, also shared his sorrow, describing Rufai as a role model.

“It’s really sad because he was someone I looked up to as a goalkeeper.

“It is a great honour to have been called an ex-Super Eagles goalkeeper alongside someone like that.

“May God bless his soul,” Aiyenugba said.

Super Eagles captain and Kano Pillars forward Ahmed Musa paid tribute to Rufai’s enduring legacy.

“I 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, DODO MAYANA – the nation mourns a hero,” Musa wrote.

A Legacy Beyond the Pitch

Rufai’s influence was not limited to his playing days.

After retiring, he dedicated himself to nurturing young talent, serving as a mentor and coordinator for the Nigeria U-23 team.

His commitment to developing the next generation of Nigerian footballers demonstrated his passion for the game and his desire to give back to the sport that had given him so much.

At the club level, Rufai was a standout figure at Lagos-based Stationery Stores, where he helped the team reach the final of the Africa Cup Winners Cup in 1981.

His professional career also took him abroad, where he played for clubs such as Lokeren and Beveren in Belgium,

Go Ahead Eagles in the Netherlands, Deportivo La Coruna and Hercules in Spain, and Farense and Gil Vicente in Portugal.

His international club experience enriched his skills and broadened his impact on the game.

National and Community Condolences

The Nigerian Premier Football League champions, Remo Stars, expressed their shock and sorrow at Rufai’s passing, extending heartfelt condolences to his family and the entire Nigerian football community.

Former Nigerian Vice President Atiku Abubakar also mourned the loss.

He described Rufai’s death as a “profound loss to the global football community” and praising his remarkable contributions to the beautiful game.

Conclusion

Peter Rufai’s passing marks the end of an era for Nigerian football.

For fans, especially those who grew up admiring his skill and dedication, his death is a moment of reflection on a career that brought pride and joy to the nation.

Rufai’s legacy as a fearless goalkeeper, a mentor, and a true ambassador of Nigerian football will continue to inspire generations.

As the nation mourns, it also celebrates the life of a football giant whose impact transcended the sport and touched the hearts of many.

May his soul rest in eternal peace.

For Diaspora Digital Media Updates click on Whatsapp, or Telegram. For eyewitness accounts/ reports/ articles, write to: citizenreports@diasporadigitalmedia.com. Follow us on X (Fomerly Twitter) or Facebook