Nigeria Sport Community Mourns The Death Of Peter Rufai
By Saheed Afolabi
The Nigeria Sport community was stunned with the sudden news of the death of ex goalkeeper, Peter Rufai on Thursday following a brief illness.
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) mourned the death of the legendary goalkeeper also known as ‘Dodo Mayana’. NFF described Rufai as a giant of Nigeria football who gave his all between the sticks for the national team.
“Forever in our hearts, Dodo Mayana.
“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.”
Super Eagles captain, Ahmed Musa expresses shock about the death of the legendary Nigeria shot stopper, while he praised him for his heroic reflexes and legacies that soar higher than trophies.
“Can’t believe I’m typing this, a post to bid farewell to a true giant of Nigerian football, Peter Rufai. Your heroic reflexes and unwavering presence between the posts brought us pride on the world stage.
“May your spirit continue to inspire future generations of Super Eagles. Though you’ve left us, your legacy soars higher than any trophy. Fly high, DODO MAYANA the nation mourns a hero. Rest in peace, legend.”
Ex internation, Mutiu Adepoju was saddened about the death of Rufai who he shared the pitch together with as teammates.
“A dark day in football.
“We have lost a colleague, a brother, and an African legend, Peter Rufai, Our Dodo Mayana.
I’m still in shock, and it’s incredibly hard to process this painful news. RIP Peter Rufai.”
Basketball legend, Olumide Oyedeji stated the loss of Rufai has brought immense sadness while reminiscing his achievements of winning the AFCON and participating in the FIFA World Cup will linger on in the hearts of Nigerians.
“The loss of a friend, a brother, and a hero is a profound experience that brings immense sadness. His remarkable achievement of winning the Africa Nations Cup and participating in USA 94 World Cup will be forever etched in our hearts.
“The impact he made on others will continue to inspire and motivate generations to come. His legacy will endure, serving as a reminder of his extraordinary talent and unwavering dedication. Though he is gone, his memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew and admired him.”
Rufai was the first Nigeria goalkeeper to play at FIFA World Cup as he famously raked in appearances at the USA 94 competition where the Super Eagles reached the Round of 16 in their maiden appearance.
Dodo Mayana reflexes, leadership skills on the pitch made him a famous hero among fans as he ranks as one of the greatest Africa goalkeepers.
Nigeria football clubs, public figures also joined in mourning the death of the icon.
