The Rufai family has announced the death of Nigerian football legend, Prince Peter Rufai, calling it an “irreplaceable loss.” Rufai, who was fondly known as “Dodo Mayana,” died on Thursday, July 3, 2025, at the age of 61 after a brief illness.
In a statement released by the family, they said: “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, Prince Peter ‘Dodo Mayana’ Rufai. He died at six o’clock in the morning on Thursday, 3rd of July, 2025, after a brief illness. He was 61 years old.”
The family expressed their sadness but also thanked God for Rufai’s life and achievements.
“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 become world famous,” the statement said.
Rufai’s football journey began in the late 1970s with Sharks Football Club in Port Harcourt. He rose through the ranks to become Nigeria’s first FIFA World Cup goalkeeper, representing the Super Eagles at USA ’94 and France ’98. He also helped Nigeria win the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations in Tunisia.
“From a humble beginning with Sharks Football Club… he rose steadily through the ranks… He also featured at four Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) finals and played a pivotal role in Nigeria’s victory at Tunisia ‘94,” the family added.
Rufai earned 66 caps for Nigeria and even scored one international goal.
His club career took him across Europe and Africa, playing in Benin Republic, Belgium, the Netherlands, Portugal, and Spain.
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After retirement, Rufai returned to Nigeria and focused on developing young talents through his company, Staruf Sports Development Limited.
“He finally returned home… and got involved in grassroots sports and youth development. That was his full-time engagement until he was called home by his Lord,” the family said.
Since his death, Nigerians at home and abroad, along with members of the international football community, have shared messages of love and sympathy with the Rufai family.
“We thank everyone for your love and expression of sympathy. A formal announcement of the burial arrangements will be made in due course,” the statement read.
Rufai is remembered not only as a national hero in football but also as a role model who inspired generations.