Nigeria’s football community has been thrown into mourning following the death of legendary goalkeeper, Peter Rufai. The former Super Eagles shot-stopper, popularly known as Dodomayana, died in the early hours of Thursday, July 3, after a prolonged illness. He was 60 years old.
Family sources confirmed the news, noting that the iconic footballer passed away peacefully at his residence.
Rufai enjoyed a distinguished 20-year professional career, playing for clubs across Europe including stints in Belgium, the Netherlands, Portugal, and Spain. He was especially remembered for his time at Deportivo La Coruña and Hércules CF in Spain, where he earned widespread respect for his agility and leadership between the sticks.
On the international scene, Rufai was a pillar of Nigeria’s national team throughout the 1990s. He represented the country at two FIFA World Cup tournaments — USA ’94 and France ’98 — and featured in multiple Africa Cup of Nations campaigns, including the 1994 tournament in Tunisia, where Nigeria clinched the title.
Beyond the pitch, Rufai was revered for his discipline, humility, and contributions to Nigerian football development, both as a player and a mentor to younger talents.
Tributes have begun pouring in from fans, footballers, and officials alike. The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) in a brief statement described Rufai as “one of the greatest goalkeepers in our history” and “a true ambassador of the game.”
He is survived by his wife and children. Burial arrangements are expected to be announced by the family in the coming days.
May his soul rest in peace.
