Remembering the Legendary: President Tinubu Mourns Goalkeeper Peter Rufai

Remembering the Legendary: President Tinubu Mourns Goalkeeper Peter Rufai

The Nigerian World

The news as it trends

Nigeria is mourning the loss of football icon Peter Rufai, who passed away at the age of 61.

Rufai died in Lagos, Nigeria, in the early hours of Thursday, July 3, 2025, at a hospital after a period of illness.

Known affectionately as “Dodomayana,” Rufai was a legendary goalkeeper who helped lead the Super Eagles to victory at the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations and represented Nigeria at two FIFA World Cups.

His commanding presence between the posts and his leadership on the field made him a national hero and a symbol of Nigerian football excellence.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu expressed deep sorrow over Rufai’s passing, calling him “a national icon” whose legacy is etched in gold.

From his early days with Stationery Stores in Lagos to his professional career in Europe, Rufai paved the way for future generations of Nigerian footballers.

He was not only a sportsman but also a patriot who wore the green and white jersey with pride and honor.

Beyond football, Rufai was a prince of the Royal House of Idimu and the founder of the Staruf Football Academy, where he mentored young athletes and gave back to the game that made him a legend.

He was married to Mikaila Rufai and had four children, including his eldest son Senbaty, who once played for Sunshine Stars in the Nigerian Premier League.

Rufai hailed from Oshodi in Lagos State and lived in Lagos until his passing, where he remained active in the football community.

His estimated net worth was around $10 million, accumulated through his international football career, endorsements, real estate investments, and his football academies in Lagos and Spain.

Peter Rufai’s death is a profound loss not only to Nigerian football but to the entire nation.

His legacy lives on through the countless lives he touched, the young talents he mentored, and the pride he brought to Nigeria on the global stage.

As tributes pour in from around the world, one thing is clear:

Peter Rufai was more than a goalkeeper — he was a legend, a leader, and a lasting symbol of Nigerian greatness.

Yetunde B reports for Yeyetunde’s Blog.