By Omowumi Omotosho
Former Super Eagles Goalkeeper, Peter Rufai, nicknamed “Dodomayana,” has died at the age of 61 following a prolonged illness. His death was confirmed Thursday morning by Radio Nigeria and later acknowledged by the Lagos State Government.
A towering presence in goal, Rufai represented Nigeria with distinction, earning 65 caps and playing a key role in the Super Eagles’ triumph at the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations. He was the first-choice goalkeeper for Nigeria at both the 1994 and 1998 FIFA World Cups.
Born in Lagos on August 24, 1963, Rufai’s club journey took him across Europe, from Belgium’s Lokeren and Beveren to the Netherlands’ Go Ahead Eagles, Portugal’s Farense and Gil Vicente, and Spain’s Hércules and Deportivo La Coruña. Over a 20-year professional career, he became known for his agility, calm leadership, and unwavering professionalism.
Beyond his on-field achievements, Rufai continued to serve Nigerian football through his Staruf Academy, mentoring young goalkeepers and promoting the sport in his post-retirement years.
