The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has paid a heartfelt tribute to the legendary Super Eagles goalkeeper Peter Rufai, who passed away on Thursday, July 3, in Lagos at the age of 61.
The Nigerian football community was thrown into mourning following confirmation that Rufai, first-choice goalkeeper at the 1994 and 1998 FIFA World Cups, passed away after a period of illness.
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“This is really, really shocking,” said NFF General Secretary, Dr Mohammed Sanusi.
“Peter Rufai dead? What happened? I am perplexed. We did not even know that he had been ill. We earnestly pray to the Almighty God to grant him eternal rest, and to comfort all his loved ones as well as the entire Nigerian football family.”
Reports indicate that the iconic shot-stopper had been ill for several weeks before passing away on Thursday at a Lagos hospital.
Former Nigeria international Waidi Akanni confirmed that his remains have been deposited at the hospital.
Rufai debuted for the Green Eagles in December 1981 and played a significant role in Nigeria’s football history, winning AFCON silver medals in 1984 and 1988 and leading the Super Eagles to victory at the 1994 AFCON in Tunisia as the first-choice goalkeeper.
Renowned for his charisma, discipline, and leadership, Rufai was between the posts as Nigeria made impressive Round of 16 runs at the 1994 and 1998 FIFA World Cups.
Beyond his exploits on the pitch, Peter Rufai remained active in Nigerian football post-retirement, mentoring young talents and at one point serving as coordinator of the national U23 team.
At club level, Rufai was a standout figure for Lagos-based Stationery Stores, helping them reach the 1981 Africa Cup Winners’ Cup final.
He also played professionally in Belgium, the Netherlands, Portugal, and Spain during a decorated career.
