Peter Rufai Is Dead: Nigerian Football Legend Dies at 61

Peter Rufai Is Dead: Nigeria Mourns Legendary Goalkeeper at 61

The Nigerian football world is in mourning as news broke on Thursday, July 3, that legendary Super Eagles goalkeeper Peter Rufai, popularly known as Dodo Mayana, is dead. He passed away at the age of 61 in a hospital in Lagos after a prolonged illness.

For many, the news came as a shock. Searches like “Is Peter Rufai dead?” and “What happened to Peter Rufai?” began trending immediately after the announcement, as fans across the world struggled to confirm the heartbreaking reality.

According to reports, Peter Rufai died around 6 a.m. on Thursday. He had been privately battling an undisclosed illness, one that even some of his close friends and former teammates were unaware of. The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) expressed shock, stating they had no idea the ex-international had been sick.

Born on August 24, 1963, in Lagos, Peter Rufai became a household name in the 1990s, rising to fame as Nigeria's fearless number one. Known for his signature dives and powerful voice from the post, Rufai played a pivotal role in Nigeria's 1994 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) win and was also part of the 1994 and 1998 FIFA World Cup squads.

Fans fondly called him Dodo Mayana, a nickname that captured his flair, confidence, and royalty on the pitch. As one of Nigeria’s most respected football exports, Rufai’s club career took him across Europe - playing in Belgium, the Netherlands, Portugal, and Spain. His legacy extends beyond football, with many remembering his humility and leadership off the pitch.

Is Peter Rufai Still Alive?

Sadly, the answer is no. The question “Is Peter Rufai still alive?” has been circulating online, but as confirmed by multiple reliable sources including the NFF, Peter Rufai is dead. His passing marks the end of an era for fans who grew up watching him guard Nigeria’s goalpost with unmatched courage.

What Happened to Peter Rufai?

Sources close to the family revealed that Rufai had been quietly managing a long-term health condition. The exact nature of the illness has not been made public, but insiders say he remained strong and hopeful throughout. His sudden death has reopened discussions about the health and welfare of retired Nigerian athletes, many of whom fade into the background after their playing days.

Tributes Pour In

Since the news of Peter Rufai's death, tributes have flooded social media. Former Super Eagles players, including Ahmed Musa, shared heartfelt posts in his memory. Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu also released a statement praising Rufai’s contribution to national pride and sports development.

“He wasn’t just a goalkeeper,” a fan posted. “He was a wall. A warrior. A legend.”

Peter Rufai Now: A Life Remembered

Before his passing, Rufai stayed active in youth football development and occasional media commentary. Although he kept a low profile in recent years, his name always came up in conversations about Nigeria’s greatest goalkeepers.

How old is Peter Rufai? He was 61 years old at the time of his death, and despite the years, many still vividly remember his commanding presence during Nigeria's golden football era.

As the country continues to ask, “What happened to Peter Rufai?” and “Where is Dodo Mayana Peter Rufai now?” - the answer is painful but clear. He’s gone, but not forgotten.

Peter Rufia, as often misspelled online, gave Nigerians moments of pride and joy. Rufai Peter, the royal shot-stopper, will forever be remembered not just for his gloves, but for his grace.