Tributes have continued to pour in from across the world for former Super Eagles shot stopper, Peter Rufai, who died on Thursday during a brief illness at 61.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu condoled the family and Nigerians in general and said, “I recall with fond memories the heroic contributions of Peter Rufai in the historic victory of the Super Eagles at the 1994 edition of the Africa Cup of Nations in Tunisia as the first-choice goalkeeper. He was also a strong member of the team at the 1998 World Cup in France,”
Former Nigeria Vice President, Atiku Abubakar also said, “It is with deep sorrow that I mourn the passing of our legendary national team goalkeeper, Peter Rufai, popularly known as Dodo Mayana. His death is a profound loss to the global football community. I extend my heartfelt condolences to his immediate family and the Nigerian football community. May his soul rest in eternal peace. Peter Rufai’s remarkable contributions to the beautiful game will always be remembered, and he will be sorely missed.”
Former Anambra State governor and presidential candidate in the last general elections, Peter Obi said, “Rufai stood tall for Nigeria, especially during our 1994 AFCON victory and the 1994 FIFA World Cup that shook the world. He gave us moments we will never forget and saves that lifted the whole nation”
“Forever in our hearts, Dodo Mayana. We mourn the passing of legendary Super Eagles goalkeeper, Peter Rufai. Your legacy lives on between the sticks and beyond. Rest well”, the NFF wrote on X.
Former Eagles playmaker, Etim Esin who was his teammate in the 90s, said, “Oh oh God! Dodo Manyana is dead. This is a great loss. We played together; I can’t imagine he’s gone, this is so sad. My condolence to his family and may his soul rest in peace.”
Super Eagles skipper and Kano Pillars forward, Ahmed Musa also paid tribute to the Peter Rufai, “I can’t believe I’m typing this – a post to bid farewell to a true giant of Nigerian football, Peter Rufai. Your heroic reflexes and unwavering presence between the posts brought us moments of pride on the world stage. May your spirit continue to inspire future generations of Super Eagles. Though you’ve left us, your legacy soars higher than any trophy. Fly high, DODO MAYANA — the nation mourns a hero.”
Peter Rufai was born on August 24, 1963, and made his debut for the then Green Eagles in a friendly match in December 1981, and won the Africa Cup of Nations silver in 1984 and 1988, and played a significant role as Nigeria won the 1994 AFCON. Dodo Mayana also played at the 1994 and 1998 World Cup.
