The Nigerian football firmament turned pale on Thursday evening after it was confirmed that the country’s 1994 and 1998 FIFA World Cup first-choice goalkeeper Peter Rufai died in Lagos following a period of illness.
“This is really, really shocking,” NFF General Secretary, Dr Mohammed Sanusi, said in Abuja. “Peter Rufai dead? What happened? I am perplexed. We did not even know that he had been ill.
“We earnestly pray to the Almighty God to grant him eternal rest, and to comfort all his loved ones as well as the entire Nigeria football family.”
Peter Rufai Dies After Battle With Illness
Reports said the flamboyant goalkeeper, who was in and out of the Nigerian senior team for 17 years, had been ill for some weeks before giving up the ghost at a Lagos hospital at about 6 am on Thursday.
Former Nigeria midfielder Waidi Akanni confirmed that the body of one of Nigeria football’s true heroes had been deposited at a Lagos hospital.
NSC Reacts
Reacting to the news of his passing, the chairman of the NSC, Mallam Shehu Dikko, expressed deep sorrow:
“This is a deeply painful loss. Peter Rufai was not just a national hero, he was a rare soul whose humility, strength, and passion inspired all of us. His legacy lives on between the sticks and far beyond. Dodo Mayana gave us memories we will cherish forever. Nigeria mourns, but heaven welcomes a legend.”
Director General of the NSC, Honourable Bukola Olopade, also paid tribute:
“Peter Rufai was a symbol of excellence and leadership in Nigerian sports. His commitment to the game, both on and off the field, was second to none. As we mourn this painful loss, we also celebrate a life that gave so much to Nigerian football. Rest well, legend—you will remain forever in our hearts.”
A Golden Career With A Golden Generation
Rufai debuted for then Green Eagles in a friendly match in December 1981, and won silver at the 1984 and 1988 Africa Cup of Nations, before Nigeria swept to glory in the continental finals in Tunisia in 1994. He was the first-choice goalkeeper in the three championships.
The charismatic and disciplined goalkeeper also kept goal for Nigeria in the 1994 and 1998 FIFA World Cup finals (the Super Eagles made the Round of 16 on both occasions).
Peter Rufai dedicated his post-retirement days to discovering and mentoring young players. He also served as the coordinator of the Nigeria U23 team.
Apart from his memorable outings with the Super Eagles, Rufai was an extraordinary figure at the Lagos club, Stationery Stores.
At Stores, he reached the final of the Africa Cup Winners Cup competition in 1981. He also played professionally in Belgium, the Netherlands, Portugal, and Spain.
