The Nigerian football community is mourning the passing of former national team goalkeeper, Peter Rufai, widely known as “Dodo Mayana.”
The Super Eagles paid tribute to Rufai on Thursday through a heartfelt message posted on their official X handle, celebrating his lasting legacy in Nigerian football.
“Forever in our hearts, Dodo Mayana,” the statement read. “We mourn the passing of legendary Super Eagles goalkeeper, Peter Rufai, a giant of Nigerian football and a 1994 AFCON champion. Your legacy lives on between the sticks and beyond. Rest well, Peter Rufai.”
Rufai played a key role in Nigeria’s victory at the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations and was instrumental in the team’s first-ever FIFA World Cup appearance that same year.
Known for his leadership and presence on the pitch, Rufai remains one of the most respected goalkeepers in Nigeria’s football history.