LAGOS, Nigeria — Peter Rufai, the celebrated former goalkeeper of Nigeria’s national football team, the Super Eagles, has died at the age of 61 following a prolonged illness.
His death was confirmed on Thursday by Waidi Akanni, a former teammate and close associate.
The Nigerian Football Federation and the Super Eagles also announced his passing in a tribute posted on the team’s official X (formerly Twitter) account.
“Forever in our hearts, Dodo Mayana. We mourn the passing of legendary Super Eagles goalkeeper, Peter Rufai, a giant of Nigerian football and a 1994 AFCON champion,” the statement read.
“Your legacy lives on between the sticks and beyond.”
Affectionately known as Dodo Mayana, Rufai was widely revered as one of Nigeria’s greatest goalkeepers.
He rose to prominence as the team’s number one shot-stopper during a golden era of Nigerian football, including the historic 1994 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) victory in Tunisia.
Rufai also represented Nigeria at two FIFA World Cups—first in the United States in 1994, and again in France in 1998—cementing his place as a mainstay in the squad through a decade-long international career.
He earned more than 60 caps for the Super Eagles.
Tributes have poured in from across the footballing world, honouring a player remembered not only for his acrobatic saves and calm presence in goal, but also for his leadership and enduring commitment to the national team.
Beyond his international exploits, Rufai enjoyed a successful club career in Europe, playing in Belgium, Portugal, and Spain, including stints at Hércules CF and Deportivo La Coruña.
