President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the death of former Super Eagles goalkeeper, Peter Rufai, who passed away at the age of 61.
In a condolence message issued on Tuesday, the President commiserated with the Rufai family, friends, and football fans across Nigeria and beyond, describing the late goalkeeper—popularly known as “Dodomayana”—as a true patriot who etched his name in gold in the annals of Nigerian and African football.
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President Tinubu fondly recalled Rufai’s heroic role in Nigeria’s historic victory at the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations in Tunisia, where he served as the team’s first-choice goalkeeper. He also played a vital role in Nigeria’s debut FIFA World Cup appearance at USA ’94 and later featured in the 1998 edition of the tournament in France.
“Rufai was one of the early Nigerian footballers to go professional, starting his career with Stationery Stores of Lagos in 1980 before moving on to play in Belgium, Spain, Portugal, and the Netherlands. In doing so, he brought honour to Nigeria and opened doors for many aspiring footballers,” the President said.
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Beyond his on-field exploits, the late goalkeeper—who hailed from the royal family of Idimu in Lagos—continued to contribute to the development of the sport by founding the Staruf Football Academy, where he mentored young talents and inspired future generations.
President Tinubu offered prayers for the repose of Rufai’s soul and comfort for all those grieving his loss.
The statement was signed by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy.
