Former Nigerian goalkeeper Peter Rufai, known as “Dodo Mayana,” has died at 61 after a long illness. A key figure in Nigeria’s 1994 AFCON win and two World Cup campaigns, Rufai earned 65 caps and inspired a generation with his skill and leadership. Tributes have poured in from former teammates and fans, mourning the loss of a national football legend.

Peter Rufai, the revered former goalkeeper of Nigeria’s national football team, has passed away at the age of 61 following a prolonged illness, prompting an outpouring of grief and tributes from across the football world. Widely known by his popular nickname “Dodo Mayana,” Rufai was celebrated for his role in one of Nigeria’s most successful football eras.

Rufai was a pivotal figure in the Super Eagles' historic triumph at the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations and also represented Nigeria at two FIFA World Cups — in 1994 and 1998. Born in Lagos, he carved out an illustrious international career, amassing 65 caps for the national team between 1983 and 1998. His performances were distinguished by his agility, strong leadership at the back, and a calm, composed presence that anchored the team’s defense during its golden generation in the 1990s.

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) expressed its condolences in a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), saying:
"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."

Rufai’s death marks a significant loss to Nigerian football and adds to the growing list of departed heroes from the country’s celebrated 1994 squad. That historic team not only clinched the African title but also introduced Nigeria to the global football scene by reaching the Round of 16 on their World Cup debut in the United States. Rufai now becomes the sixth member of that legendary team to pass away, following the deaths of Stephen Keshi, Rashidi Yekini, Wilfred Agbonavbare, Thompson Oliha, and Uche Okafor.

His football journey began with local Nigerian clubs Stationery Stores and Femo Scorpions before he ventured abroad to play professionally in Benin, Belgium, the Netherlands, Spain, and Portugal. Rufai was known not only for his excellent reflexes and shot-stopping skills but also for his work ethic, discipline, and professionalism — qualities that left a lasting impression on many up-and-coming goalkeepers in Africa.

Tributes have continued to flow in from teammates and fans. Former Nigeria captain and teammate Kanu Nwankwo posted on social media, “We lost an African legend Peter Rufai. May his soul rest well. May your spirit continue to inspire all of us and future generations.”

Super Eagles forward Ahmed Musa also paid tribute, saying, “The nation mourns a hero. Your heroic reflexes and unwavering presence between the posts brought us moments of pride on the world stage. Though you’ve left us, your legacy soars higher than any trophy. Fly high, Dodo Mayana.”