The family of the late Prince Peter Rufai, fondly known as “Dodo Mayana,” has extended heartfelt appreciation to Nigerians across the globe for the outpouring of sympathy and solidarity following the death of the iconic former Super Eagles goalkeeper.
In a statement released on Friday, the family confirmed that the football great passed away peacefully at 6am on Thursday, July 3, 2025, after a brief illness. He was aged 61.
While describing his passing as a deeply painful loss, the Rufai family expressed profound gratitude to God for the remarkable life he lived and the honor he brought Nigeria on the global football stage.
“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 statement read.
A Career Etched in History
Peter Rufai holds a special place in Nigeria’s football history as the first goalkeeper to represent the country at a FIFA World Cup—featuring in both the USA ’94 and France ’98 editions.
Earning 66 caps for the Super Eagles, he featured in four Africa Cup of Nations tournaments and played a key role in Nigeria’s victorious AFCON campaign in Tunisia in 1994. Notably, he also scored a goal for Nigeria, an uncommon feat for a goalkeeper.
Rufai’s professional club journey spanned several countries. From his early days with Sharks FC in Port Harcourt, he went on to play in Benin Republic, Belgium, the Netherlands, Portugal, and Spain.
After hanging up his gloves, he returned to Nigeria and devoted himself to developing youth talent through his sports initiative, Staruf Sports Development Limited.
Public Appreciation and Burial Plans
As tributes continue to pour in, the Rufai family expressed deep appreciation for the support shown by Nigerians both at home and in the diaspora.
“The Rufai Family will like to thank all Nigerians at home and abroad that have been reaching out to us with condolence messages either directly or through the media since the news broke of Prince Peter Rufai’s death. We thank everyone for your love and expression of sympathy.”
The statement was signed collectively by members of his immediate family, including his children and siblings. According to them, funeral arrangements will be communicated at a later date.
Peter Rufai will be remembered not just for his exploits between the posts, but also for his humility, his leadership, and his lifelong commitment to nurturing Nigeria’s future stars.
May his soul rest in perfect peace.
