OBITUARY: Farewell to a Legend: Prince Peter Rufai, 1963–2025
With total submission to the will of the Almighty God, the Rufai Family announces the passing of their beloved brother, father, and national football icon, Prince Peter Rufai, fondly known as Dodo Mayana. He peacefully departed this life at 6:00 AM on Thursday, July 3rd, 2025, after a brief illness. He was 61.
A cherished son of Nigeria, Prince Rufai made an indelible mark as the nation’s first-ever FIFA World Cup goalkeeper and a key figure in the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations-winning squad. His international career boasted 66 caps and a rare goalkeeper’s goal, as well as club stints across Benin Republic, Belgium, the Netherlands, Portugal, and Spain.
After hanging his gloves, Prince Rufai devoted himself to youth sports development through his organization, Staruf Sports Development Ltd., promoting grassroots talent and inspiring a new generation of athletes.
While the family is heartbroken by his sudden departure, we are comforted by the legacy he leaves behind—a legacy of excellence, integrity, and national pride. His memory will live on through his contributions to Nigerian sport and the countless lives he touched.
We are deeply grateful to the Nigerian public and international well-wishers for the outpouring of love and support received since the announcement of his passing. Your prayers and condolences are a source of strength in this difficult time.
Funeral arrangements will be communicated in due course.
Signed, The Rufai Family Yomi Bruce Rufai Gladys Apata Pastor Mrs. Bosede Rufai Lawson Jack Dele Rufai Emizibo Don Okikiola I. Rufai Tunde Rufai Confidence Rufai Biodun Rufai Bright Rufai David Rufai
