
03/07/2025
๐ณ๐ฌ๐๏ธ Farewell to a Legend: Peter โDodo Mayanaโ Rufai
Nigeria has lost one of its most iconic football heroes. Peter Rufai, the ever-reliable, ever-charismatic goalkeeper who defended the nation's dreams, has passed away at the age of 61.
โฝ His Legacy in Glorious Numbers
๐งค 65 international caps for the Super Eagles
๐ 1994 AFCON Champion
๐ Played in Spain, Portugal, Belgium, and the Netherlands
๐ฅ
Scored a memorable penalty in Nigeriaโs 6โ0 win over Ethiopia in 1993
โ๏ธ Represented Nigeria at two FIFA World Cups (1994 & 1998)
๐ A Royal and a Role Model
Son of a traditional ruler in Idimu, Rufai was royalty on and off the pitch. He declined kingship to focus on mentorship and football. Through his Staruf Academy, he gave countless young talents the tools to dream bigger.
Even in his final days, he stood for integrity, raising awareness on cybersecurity issues involving his identity.
Peter Rufai wasnโt just a player. He was a pillar of character, resilience, and leadershipโon the field and in life.
๐ Forever in our hearts, Dodo Mayana. Your hands were safe, your spirit unstoppable.