Super Eagles legendary goalkeeper, Peter Rufai, is dead.
Rufai, died on Thursday morning, July 3, 2025, following a protracted illness that had kept him out of the public eye for some years at the age of 61.
Dodomayana, as he is fondly called, was widely regarded as of the best goalkeepers Nigeria has produced.
During his playing career that lasted two decades, Rufai played in Belgium, the Netherlands, Portugal and Spain.
He also represented Nigeria at two World Cups and as many Africa Cup of Nations tournaments.
Rufai’s death comes on a day the world of football is mourning Liverpool forward, Diogo Jota.
Paying tribute, Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has described the passing of Rufai, as a great loss to Nigeria, especially football fans.
Governor Sanwo-Olu said the death of the Nigerian football legend is painful. He sympathised with the deceased’s family, friends, colleagues, the Nigerian Football Federation and the Nigeria Sports Commission.
The Governor, in a statement issued on Thursday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Gboyega Akosile, said Peter Rufai, fondly called Dodomayana, is a legend who wore the Green-White-Green with passion and pride.
He said: “The death of Dodomayana, as Peter Rufai is fondly called, is a painful loss to our country, Lagos State and Nigeria. The country has lost a legend and national icon. He was one of the best Nigerian goalkeepers in football history.
“Peter Rufai served Nigeria passionately, winning many laurels for the country in international competitions.
“On behalf of the government and people of Lagos State, I offer my heartfelt condolences to Nigerians and Lagosians in particular, especially those with fond memories of Dodomayana of the famous Stationery Stores Football Club.
Peter Rufai was a good ambassador of our dear State and Nigeria. His death is a great loss to us.
“I am saddened by his death and will be sorely missed. I pray to God for eternal peace for the late Peter Rufai. May God grant the family, friends and football fans the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.”
