The family of Prince Peter Rufai, Nigeria’s legendary Super Eagles goalkeeper, has described his passing as an irreplaceable loss, mourning the departure of a national icon, beloved father, and brother.
In an official statement released on Thursday, July 3, 2025, the Rufai family confirmed that the former international, fondly known as “Dodo Mayana,” passed away peacefully at 6 a.m. following a brief illness. He was 61.
“With total submission to the will of Almighty God, it is with a heavy heart that we announce the transition to glory of our father and brother, the legendary former Super Eagles goalkeeper, Prince Peter ‘Dodo Mayana’ Rufai,” the family said.
While acknowledging the shock surrounding his sudden death, the family expressed deep gratitude for a life marked by distinction, patriotism, and inspiration. They recalled his journey from humble beginnings with Sharks FC in the late 1970s to becoming Nigeria’s first-ever FIFA World Cup goalkeeper, featuring in USA ’94 and France ’98.
Rufai earned 66 caps for the national team and was instrumental in Nigeria’s historic Africa Cup of Nations triumph in 1994. His club career took him across Europe, with stints in Benin Republic, Belgium, the Netherlands, Portugal, and Spain, where he earned admiration for his skill and leadership.
Following his retirement, Rufai returned to Nigeria to focus on youth and grassroots sports development, founding Staruf Sports Development Limited—a platform through which he mentored aspiring athletes.
Since the announcement of his passing, condolences have poured in from across the country and the global football community. The Rufai family expressed their heartfelt thanks for the overwhelming support and noted that funeral arrangements will be announced in due course.
