Nigeria is in mourning. With tear-soaked hearts and trembling hands, the nation received and confirmed the devastating news of the passing of one of its most iconic football heroes — Prince Peter “Dodo Mayana” Rufai, the former Super Eagles goalkeeper who stood as a rock between the sticks during Nigeria’s golden era of football.
He died at exactly 6:00 a.m. on Thursday, July 3, 2025, following a brief illness, according to a family statement. He was 61 years old.
The news of his sudden transition sent shockwaves across the country and beyond, triggering an outpouring of grief from fans, football icons, journalists, and government officials.
“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 MANYANA” RUFAI,” the deceased’ family confirmed.
He died at Six O’Clock in the morning of Thursday, 3rd of July, 2025 after a brief illness. He was 61 years old.
“Despite our shock and sadness at his rather sudden demise, we are indeed extremely grateful to God Almighty for the impactful life that He granted Prince Peter Rufai through a very successful football career that made him world famous,” the family said in a solemn statement.
A National Icon, A Global Legacy
Born in Lagos on August 24, 1963, Peter Rufai began his goalkeeping journey with Sharks Football Club of Port Harcourt in the late 1970s.
Rising through the ranks with remarkable agility, composure, and leadership, he went on to become Nigeria’s first-ever FIFA World Cup goalkeeper, proudly donning the number one shirt at USA ‘94 and France ‘98.
He earned 66 caps for Nigeria and, in a rare feat for a goalkeeper, scored a goal for the Super Eagles — a memory forever etched in the hearts of fans.
Rufai was instrumental in Nigeria’s historic AFCON 1994 victory in Tunisia, delivering crucial saves that helped Nigeria lift the trophy and stamp its name among Africa’s football giants.
He also represented the country at four African Cup of Nations tournaments, becoming a symbol of consistency, resilience, and excellence.
From Port Harcourt to Europe: A Club Career That Inspired Millions
Peter Rufai’s club career took him across borders and continents, with successful spells in Benin Republic, Belgium, The Netherlands, Portugal, and Spain.
He famously played for SC Farense in Portugal and Deportivo La Coruña in Spain, where he earned global respect for his agility, shot-stopping brilliance, and commanding presence.
His footballing journey was more than a career; it was a mission that inspired generations of Nigerian youth to dream big.
Life After Football: A Legacy of Empowerment
After retiring from professional football, Rufai returned to Nigeria to invest in the next generation through Staruf Sports Development Limited, an initiative dedicated to grassroots sports and youth empowerment.
Until his final moments, Dodo Mayana remained committed to building dreams — not just blocking goals.
Burial Arrangements Pending
The family has asked for privacy during this difficult time but expressed deep appreciation for the flood of condolence messages from Nigerians at home and abroad:
“We thank everyone for your love and expression of sympathy. A formal announcement of the burial arrangements will be made in due course,” the statement concluded.
The heartbreaking announcement was signed by members of the Rufai family, including his sons, daughters, siblings, and relatives — a united front now grappling with an irreplaceable void.
Final Whistle
As Nigeria lowers its flags and bows its head, we remember not just the goalkeeper in gloves, but the prince of purpose, a man who gave his all for country, for football, and for the future.
Peter Rufai is gone… but legends never die.
May your gloves rest in glory, Dodo Mayana. 🕊️
