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Peter Rufai

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Peter Rufai, legendary former Super Eagles goalkeeper, has died at the age of 61 after a prolonged illness. Rufai passed away in the early hours of Thursday, July 3, 2025, in Lagos, with confirmation coming from family sources and several senior football officials[1][2][3]. Known as “Dodo Mayana,” he was widely recognized as one of Nigeria’s most celebrated footballers, earning 65 international caps and playing key roles at the 1994 and 1998 FIFA World Cups as well as Nigeria’s historic Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) victory in 1994[1][4][5].

Rufai’s playing career spanned two decades, featuring stints with local Nigerian club Stationery Stores and international clubs such as Go Ahead Eagles (Netherlands), Farense (Portugal), and Deportivo La Coruña (Spain)[1][4][5]. In addition to his club success, Rufai was a prominent figure in the national team, dedicating his post-retirement years to mentoring young players through his Staruf Football Academy in Lagos[6][7].

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and many in the football community have expressed shock and sadness at his passing. Dr. Mohammed Sanusi, NFF General Secretary, mourned, “We earnestly pray to the Almighty God to grant him eternal rest, and to comfort all his loved ones as well as the entire Nigeria football family”[2][6]. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar also paid tribute, describing Rufai as a national icon and highlighting his invaluable contributions to Nigerian football and youth development[7].

In June 2025, weeks before his death, Rufai publicly alerted the public to a cyberattack targeting his personal and corporate data, including his passport, urging vigilance and expressing confidence in the authorities to investigate the breach[1].

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