President Bola Tinubu has expressed profound sadness at the passing of former Super Eagles goalkeeper, Peter Rufai. Rufai died on Thursday, July 3, 2025, after battling a long illness that had kept him away from the public eye for some time. His death signifies the end of an era for many Nigerians who admire his outstanding contributions during the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations victory and Nigeria’s first historic participation in the FIFA World Cup that same year. In a statement released on Thursday by his Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu praised Rufai as a dedicated athlete who significantly contributed to Nigerian and African sports history. “I fondly remember Peter Rufai’s heroic role as the starting goalkeeper for the Super Eagles during our historic win at the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations in Tunisia, as well as Nigeria’s groundbreaking first appearance in the FIFA World Cup, referred to as USA ’94.” Also see: “I’m Still In Shock –Adepoju Reacts To Rufai’s Death.” Rufai was a key member of the team during the next edition of the competition held in France in 1998. He began his career with Stationery Stores of Lagos in 1980 and was among the first Nigerian footballers to turn professional, playing in various European leagues including those in Belgium, Spain, Portugal, and the Netherlands, thereby bringing pride to his country and paving the way for future Nigerian footballers. After retiring from professional play, Peter, a Prince from the Royal House in Idimu, Lagos, established the Staruf Football Academy, where he continued to motivate, mentor, and develop young athletes. Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu expressed his sorrow over Rufai’s passing. In a statement released on Thursday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Gboyega Akosile, he stated that Peter Rufai, affectionately known as Dodomayana, was a legendary figure who proudly represented Nigeria in international competitions. The loss of Dodomayana is a significant sorrow for our nation, Lagos State, and Nigeria as a whole. The nation has mourned the passing of a legendary figure and a symbol of national pride. He is considered one of the greatest goalkeepers in the history of Nigerian football. See also: Musa expresses sorrow over the loss of a ‘True Giant of Nigerian Football,’ Rufai. Peter Rufai dedicated himself to serving Nigeria, bringing home numerous accolades for the nation in global contests. He was Nigeria’s primary goalkeeper during the FIFA World Cup tournaments in 1994 and 1998, and he contributed to the Super Eagles’ victory in the 1994 African Cup of Nations held in Tunisia. “On behalf of the Lagos State government and its residents, I extend my sincere condolences to all Nigerians, especially Lagosians, who cherish memories of Dodomayana from the well-known Stationery Stores Football Club.” Peter Rufai served as a commendable representative for both our beloved State and Nigeria. His passing is a significant loss for us. I feel deep sadness over his death and he will be greatly missed.