President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has paid tribute to former Super Eagles goalkeeper Peter Rufai, describing him as a national icon who left an indelible mark on Nigerian and African football.

 

In a statement released on Thursday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu expressed deep sorrow over Rufai’s passing at the age of 61, calling him a legend fondly remembered as “Dodomayana.”

 

Reflecting on Rufai’s stellar career, Tinubu recalled his pivotal role in Nigeria’s historic 1994 Africa Cup of Nations victory in Tunisia, where he served as the Super Eagles’ first-choice goalkeeper. He also highlighted Rufai’s contribution to Nigeria’s debut FIFA World Cup appearance the same year at USA ’94.

 

“The heroic exploits of Peter Rufai at AFCON ’94 and the World Cup will forever be cherished. He brought immense pride to Nigeria,” Tinubu stated.

 

He further noted Rufai’s participation in the 1998 World Cup in France and praised his groundbreaking role as one of Nigeria’s earliest footballers to go professional in Europe — playing in Belgium, the Netherlands, Portugal, and Spain.

 

“Starting with Stationery Stores in 1980, Rufai blazed a trail for future generations by taking his talent abroad and uplifting the image of Nigerian football globally,” the President added.

 

Tinubu also recognized Rufai’s post-retirement impact through the Staruf Football Academy, which he founded to mentor and develop young talents across the country.

 

“Prince Peter RufaiPrince Peter Rufai was not only a sportsman but also a mentor and a builder of dreams. His legacy will live on in the hearts of Nigerians and football fans around the world,” Tinubu said.