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Peter Rufai was a true pioneer of the Super Eagles modern goalkeeping position, and he lived for over six decades before he succumbed to the cold hands of death. In this article, we look at his life, legacy and career.
Rufai played a major role in Nigeria’s rise in international football, helping the country reach new heights in the 1990s. He earned a nickname among Nigerian football fans for his skills between the sticks.
Who Was Peter Rufai?
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Peter Rufai, fondly called “Dodo Mayana”, was a professional goalkeeper and one of Nigeria’s greatest football exports.
Born on August 24, 1963, in Lagos State, Rufai was known for his agility, calm presence in goal, and leadership skills. He earned over 60 caps for the Super Eagles and became the first Nigerian goalkeeper to score a goal and to play in the UEFA Champions League.
He was also the first-choice goalkeeper for Nigeria during some of the country’s most important footballing moments, including their debut World Cup appearance in 1994 and their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) win in the same year.
Where Was Peter Rufai Born?
Rufai was born in Lagos, Nigeria, into a royal family. He was a prince from the Idimu area of Lagos State. Though he was born into royalty, he chose to pursue football instead of traditional leadership, a decision that shocked many at the time.
Despite his background, Rufai remained humble and focused on building a name for himself through hard work and dedication to the game.
Peter Rufai Club Career
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Rufai’s club career took him across several countries and leagues. He began playing professionally in Nigeria with Stationery Stores F.C. and Femo Scorpions before moving to Benin Republic in 1986 with AS Dragons FC de l'Ouémé.
He moved to Europe in the late 1980s, joining Lokeren in Belgium, and later played for Beveren, also in Belgium. He also played in the Netherlands with Go Ahead Eagles and in Portugal with Farense.
In 1997, he made history by becoming one of the few Nigerian goalkeepers to play in the Spanish La Liga, representing Hércules CF and later Deportivo La Coruña. He ended his club career at Gil Vicente in Portugal.
Rufai’s time in Europe saw him face some of the world’s best strikers, yet he held his own and earned praise for his performances.
Peter Rufai Super Eagles Career
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Rufai made his debut for Nigeria in 1983 and went on to serve the national team for more than a decade. He was in goal for the Super Eagles during their AFCON victory in 1994, helping Nigeria defeat Zambia 2-1 in the final. That same year, he was Nigeria’s number one at the 1994 FIFA World Cup, the country’s first-ever appearance at the tournament.
He was also part of the squad that played at the 1998 World Cup in France. He was a trusted figure in the national team, known for bringing confidence to the backline and guiding defenders with his voice and experience.
He eventually retired from international football after the 1998 World Cup but remains one of the most respected figures in Nigerian football history. He earned 65 caps for the Super Eagles and scored a goal during Nigeria’s 6-0 win over Ethiopia in an AFCON qualification game in 1993.
Peter Rufai’s Life After Football
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After retirement, Rufai focused on sports development and football mentorship in Nigeria. He launched a football academy and also spoke publicly about the need for better investment in grassroots sports.
He also dabbled in media work and occasionally featured as a guest analyst during major tournaments. Known for his soft-spoken and wise nature, Rufai remained a respected voice in Nigerian football even after hanging up his gloves.
He also used his platform to speak about health awareness among athletes and promoted physical fitness for young Nigerians.
Peter Rufai’s Death
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On July 3, 2025, Nigeria heard the sad news of Rufai’s passing. According to different sources, the former Super Eagles goalkeeper died after a long illness. He was 61 years old.
The news sent shockwaves across the Nigerian football community, with tributes pouring in from former teammates, football fans, and government officials. The Nigeria Football Federation described him as “a national icon who gave everything for his country.”
Many fans took to social media to honour him, recalling his saves, bravery, and the joy he brought to millions during Nigeria’s golden football era. Clubs he played for in Europe also posted tributes in his memory.
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