
Former Super Eagles goalkeeper, Peter Rufai
More Tributes pour in following the demise of a former Super Eagles goalkeeper and 1994 AFCON winner, Peter Rufai, who passed on at the age of 61.
Rufai was said to have died in Lagos in the early hours of Thursday following a brief illness.
Former Nigerian midfielder Waidi Akanni confirmed that the body of Rufai had been deposited at a Lagos hospital.
Reacting to the sad situation, the NFF described him as “a giant of Nigerian football” and one of the country’s most iconic players.
“Forever in our hearts, Dodo Mayana,” the NFF wrote on X.
“We mourn the passing of legendary Super Eagles goalkeeper, Peter Rufai. Your legacy lives on between the sticks and beyond. Rest well.”
For ex-Eagles captain, Segun Odegbami, the goalkeeper had been battling illness.
“I know he’s been ill and that he was in the hospital for a while. Now, I am at a loss and need to find out what has happened now.”
Former Eagles No.10, Etim Esin who was his teammate in the 90s, was deeply devastated by the news.
“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.”
Another former Super Eagles goalkeeper, Dele Aiyenugba also expressed sadness at the death of Rufai.
“It’s really sad because he was someone I looked up to as a goalkeeper. It is a great honour to have been called an ex-Super Eagles goalkeeper alongside someone like that. May God bless his soul.”
“Forever in our hearts, Dodo Mayana,” the NFF wrote on X.
“We mourn the passing of legendary Super Eagles goalkeeper, Peter Rufai. Your legacy lives on between the sticks and beyond. Rest well.”
Nigeria Premier Football League champions, Remo Stars also sent condolences to the ex-Eagles goalkeeper’s family.
“Everyone at Remo Stars is deeply shocked and saddened by the sudden passing of Nigerian goalkeeping legend, Peter Rufai.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and the entire Nigerian football community during this difficult time.”
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.”