By Babatunde Ogunrinde

Nigeria’s football community is mourning the death of former Super Eagles goalkeeper, Peter Rufai, fondly called Dodomayana.

Rufai died on Thursday in Lagos at the age of 61, following a prolonged illness, according to family sources.

He captained Nigeria and featured in two FIFA World Cups — USA 1994 and France 1998 — becoming one of the country’s most celebrated goalkeepers.

Rufai earned 65 caps for the national team and played a key role in Nigeria’s 1994 Africa Cup of Nations victory in Tunisia.

He was the first Nigerian goalkeeper to play professionally in Europe, with spells in Belgium, Netherlands, Portugal, and Spain.

In an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) ex-international and former Super Eagles coach, Kadiri Ikhana, described Rufai’s death as a painful loss.

“Rufai was a dedicated sportsman who gave his all to the growth and development of football in Nigeria,” Ikhana told NAN.

He praised Rufai’s impact at both national and club levels, especially during his time with Stationery Stores of Lagos in his early playing days.

“He was a great goalkeeper whose contributions to the Super Eagles were immense and unforgettable.

“It’s really sad to lose another legend, coming shortly after the demise of Christian Chukwu. May Rufai’s soul rest in perfect peace,” Ikhana said.

He added that Rufai’s legacy as a leader, mentor, and icon will live on in the heart of Nigerian football.

Beyond football, Rufai was admired for his humility and unwavering passion for developing young talents through grassroots initiatives.

He founded the Staruf Football Academy and launched the “Dodomayana Soccerthon”, which discovered and mentored future stars across the country.

His efforts inspired young Nigerians to combine sports and education, shaping the next generation of footballers and leaders.

Nigeria Football Federation President, Ibrahim Gusau, said Rufai was “a true Nigerian legend who inspired generations of players and fans.”

Born in Lagos in 1963 to a royal family in Idimu, Rufai chose football over kingship, chasing his dreams on the pitch.

Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced soon by the family. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo