The family of the late Nigerian football legend, Prince Peter “Dodo Mayana” Rufai, has released an official statement confirming his passing and expressing their gratitude for the outpouring of love and sympathy from Nigerians and the global football community.
The statement, jointly signed by 11 members of the Rufai family, reads:
“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.
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“He passed away at 6:00 a.m. on Thursday, 3rd July 2025, after a brief illness. He was 61 years old.
“Despite our shock and sadness at his rather sudden demise, we are extremely grateful to God Almighty for the impactful life he lived. Through a highly successful football career, Prince Peter Rufai brought pride and recognition to our family and the nation.
“From humble beginnings with Sharks Football Club of Port Harcourt in the late 1970s, he rose through the ranks to become Nigeria’s first FIFA World Cup goalkeeper, representing the country at USA ’94 and France ’98.
“He also featured in four Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournaments and played a crucial role in Nigeria’s triumph at Tunisia ’94. In total, he earned 66 caps for the national team and remarkably scored one goal.
“Peter Rufai also had a distinguished club career, playing professionally in Benin Republic, Belgium, the Netherlands, Portugal, and Spain.
“After his retirement, he returned home and committed himself to grassroots development through Staruf Sports Development Limited, dedicating his post-playing years to nurturing young talents in Nigeria.
“The Rufai family wishes to sincerely thank all Nigerians at home and abroad who have reached out with messages of condolence and support since the news of his passing became public.
“We deeply appreciate your love, prayers, and expressions of sympathy. A formal announcement regarding his burial arrangements will be communicated in due course.”
Prince Peter Rufai remains one of Nigeria’s most iconic football figures, and his legacy continues to inspire generations.
