By Huldah Shado
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Super Eagles captain Ahmed Musa, and several prominent Nigerians have paid heartfelt tributes to legendary Super Eagles goalkeeper, Peter Rufai, who died on Thursday, July 3, 2025, at the age of 61 after a prolonged illness.
Rufai, fondly known as “Dodo Mayana,” is widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s finest goalkeepers.
His passing has sparked an outpouring of grief across the nation’s football community, with tributes pouring in from government officials, football authorities, former teammates, and fans.
In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu expressed deep sorrow over Rufai’s death.
“The President condoles with the Rufai family, friends, and football enthusiasts on the demise of the inimitable goalkeeper fondly called ‘Dodo Mayana’ by his numerous fans,” the statement read.
Tinubu also prayed for the repose of Rufai’s soul and comfort for all who mourn him.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar also mourned the football icon, describing him as a national treasure whose legacy will forever live on in Nigerian football.
He extended his condolences to Rufai’s family and the entire football community.
The Nigeria Football Federation expressed shock over the news. Dr. Mohammed Sanusi, NFF General Secretary, said: “This is really shocking. Peter Rufai dead? What happened? I’m perplexed. We didn’t even know he had been ill. We pray the Almighty grants him eternal rest and consoles his family and the football fraternity.”
The official Super Eagles X (formerly Twitter), account also honored him with a simple but powerful tribute: “Forever in our hearts, Dodo Mayana.”
The wave of condolences and emotional tributes highlights the immense impact Rufai had on Nigerian football.
His legacy as a sports icon and national hero will be remembered for generations.
