The family of Peter Rufai, the late former goalkeeper of the Super Eagles, on Friday, officially announced the death of the ex-international.
The family, consisting of his siblings and children, made the announcement in a statement titled “Obituary: Peter Rufai Goes Home.”
The statement was signed by Yomi Bruce Rufai (younger brother); Gladys Apata (elder sister); Pastor Mrs. Bosede Rufai Lawson Jack and Dele Rufai Emizibo (younger sisters) and the children of the late footballer- Don Okikiola, Tunde, Biodun, Bright, David (sons) and Confidence (daughter).
“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, Peter “Dodo Mayana” Rufai.
“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 to become world famous.
“From a humble beginning with Sharks Football Club of Port Harcourt in the late 1970’s, he rose steadily through the ranks in the national team to become Nigeria’s first FIFA World Cup goalkeeper at USA ’94 and France ’98.
“He also featured at four Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) finals and played a pivotal role in Nigeria’s victory at Tunisia ‘94.
“Altogether, he won 66 caps with the national team and scored one goal.
“Prince Peter Rufai also enjoyed a successful club career that took him from home in Nigeria to Benin Republic, Belgium, The Netherlands, Portugal and Spain.
“He finally returned home to Nigeria after his retirement to set up Staruf Sports Development Limited through which he got involved in grassroots sports and youth development.
“That was his full time engagement until he was called home by his Lord,” the family stated in the statement.
The Rufai Family thanked Nigerians at home and abroad who have been reaching with condolence messages either, directly or through the media since the news broke of the former goalkeeper of the national team.
“We thank everyone for your love and expression of sympathy. A formal announcement of the burial arrangements will be made in due course,” the family concluded.
