The family of the late Prince Peter “Dodo Mayana” Rufai has expressed deep gratitude to Nigerians at home and abroad for the overwhelming show of love and sympathy following the passing of the iconic former Super Eagles goalkeeper.
In an official statement released on Friday, the Rufai family confirmed that the 61-year-old football legend died peacefully at 6am on Thursday, 3rd July 2025, after a brief illness. Describing his death as a painful loss, the family said they remain thankful to God for the life he lived and the global recognition he brought to Nigeria through football.
“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 world famous,” the Statement reads.
Peter Rufai: Football career spanned five countries
Widely celebrated for his exploits as Nigeria’s first FIFA World Cup goalkeeper—featuring at USA ’94 and France ’98—Rufai’s career spanned decades and continents. He earned 66 caps for the Super Eagles, played at four Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournaments, and was instrumental in Nigeria’s AFCON victory in Tunisia in 1994. Unusually for a goalkeeper, he also scored a goal during his international career.
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His club career took him from Nigeria’s Sharks of Port Harcourt to stints in Benin Republic, Belgium, the Netherlands, Portugal, and Spain. Upon retirement, Rufai returned home and committed himself fully to youth and grassroots sports development through his company, Staruf Sports Development Limited.
Family thanks Nigerians and awaits funeral plans
While mourning his loss, the family used the opportunity to thank the public for their comforting messages:
“The Rufai Family will like to thank all Nigerians at home and abroad that have been reaching out to us with condolence messages either directly or through the media since the news broke of Prince Peter Rufai’s death. We thank everyone for your love and expression of sympathy.”
The statement was jointly signed by several members of the Rufai family, including his children and siblings. They noted that details of the burial arrangements will be announced in due course.
Peter Rufai is remembered not only for his accomplishments on the pitch but also for his humility, leadership, and unwavering dedication to the development of young talent in Nigeria.
May his soul rest in perfect peace.
1 Comment
DODO MAYANA!
REST IN PEACE, LEGEND!
Thoughts and prayers for the family in this difficult period.