Paragraph 1: A Nation Mourns a Footballing Icon
The Nigerian football fraternity and the nation at large are plunged into mourning following the demise of Prince Peter Rufai, a legendary goalkeeper who etched his name in the annals of Nigerian football history. Rufai, affectionately known as “Dodo Mayana,” breathed his last in the early hours of Thursday, July 3, 2025, at the age of 61, succumbing to a brief illness. His passing marks the end of an era, leaving a void in the hearts of football enthusiasts who witnessed his remarkable journey from a budding talent to a national icon.
Paragraph 2: The Rufai Family’s Heartfelt Tribute
The Rufai family, grappling with the immense loss, released an official statement expressing their profound sorrow and paying tribute to their beloved father, brother, and national hero. While acknowledging the shock and sadness that accompanied his sudden departure, they expressed gratitude for the impactful life he lived, a life characterized by excellence, patriotism, and unwavering dedication to the sport he loved. They described him as a source of inspiration to many, both on and off the field, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to inspire generations to come.
Paragraph 3: From Humble Beginnings to International Stardom
Rufai’s football odyssey began in the late 1970s with Sharks Football Club of Port Harcourt, where his raw talent quickly caught the attention of football pundits. He steadily rose through the ranks, eventually becoming Nigeria’s first FIFA World Cup goalkeeper, representing the nation at both the USA ’94 and France ’98 tournaments. His contributions to the Super Eagles extended beyond the World Cup, with appearances in four Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) finals, playing a pivotal role in Nigeria’s triumphant campaign in Tunisia ’94. He amassed a total of 66 caps for the national team, even managing to find the back of the net once.
Paragraph 4: A Trailblazing Career Across Continents
Beyond the national team, Rufai’s club career traversed continents, taking him to top leagues in Benin Republic, Belgium, the Netherlands, Portugal, and Spain. His exceptional skills between the posts earned him admiration and respect from fans and fellow professionals across Europe and Africa. He blazed a trail for future generations of African footballers, demonstrating that talent and dedication could open doors to the world’s most prestigious leagues. His international experience enriched the Nigerian football scene, bringing back valuable insights and experiences that contributed to the growth of the game locally.
Paragraph 5: A Legacy of Youth Development and Grassroots Sports
Upon retirement, Rufai returned to Nigeria, driven by a passion to nurture the next generation of footballers. He established Staruf Sports Development Limited, a platform through which he dedicated himself to grassroots sports and youth development. His commitment to empowering young athletes and promoting sports at the community level reflected his unwavering belief in the transformative power of sports. He continued this impactful work until his untimely passing, leaving behind a legacy that extends beyond his playing days.
Paragraph 6: An Outpouring of Love and Condolences
News of Rufai’s passing reverberated across the globe, prompting an outpouring of love and sympathy from fans, former teammates, and the entire footballing community. The Rufai family expressed their heartfelt gratitude for the overwhelming support received from Nigerians at home and abroad, acknowledging the countless condolence messages that poured in through various channels. They recognized the profound impact Rufai had on the lives of many and the enduring legacy he leaves behind. Details regarding his burial arrangements are expected to be announced in due course, allowing fans and admirers to pay their final respects to a true legend of Nigerian football.
