From 1963–2025: Important moments in the life of Nigerian goalkeeping legend Peter ‘Dodo Mayana’ Rufai
By Olaolu Joseph –
Nigeria’s football fraternity was thrown into mourning on Thursday following the demise of legendary safe hands, Peter Rufai, who passed away at the age of 61.
The towering, charismatic goaltender was a great goalie who made the Super Eagles’ squad formidable in the 90s, particularly between 1993 and 1994.
He was courageous and inspirational between the sticks, endearing himself to both young and old. Some would jokingly call him “Keeper Rufai.”
The death of Rufai, fondly called ‘Dodo Mayana’, has brought an end to another famous era in Nigerian and African goalkeeping history.
Here are some key moments in the life and times of the ever-friendly, accommodating, and gentle Rufai:
- Choosing football ahead of the throne
Peter Rufai was born on August 24, 1963, in Oshodi, Lagos. He hailed from a royal family—his father was a traditional ruler in Idimu, Lagos State. Despite being in line to inherit the throne, Rufai chose to pursue his passion for football, charting a path that took him across continents. - A rewarding club career
Rufai began his career at Nigeria’s Stationery Stores and Femo Scorpions before moving abroad. He played for clubs across Benin (Dragons de l’Ouémé), Belgium (Lokeren, Beveren), the Netherlands (Go Ahead Eagles), Portugal (Farense, Gil Vicente), and Spain (Hércules, Deportivo La Coruña), building a wealth of international experience. - Remarkable UEFA Cup outing with SC Farense of Portugal
In the 1994–95 season, Rufai delivered a standout performance for Portuguese side SC Farense. His consistency in goal helped the club qualify for the UEFA Cup for the first time in its history, conceding just 38 goals in 34 league appearances. - Nigeria’s numero uno in between the sticks
Rufai earned 65 caps for Nigeria and was the starting goalkeeper at the 1994 and 1998 FIFA World Cups. He played a crucial role in Nigeria’s triumph at the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations in Tunisia, helping establish the Super Eagles as a continental powerhouse. - Unforgettable goal from the spot
In an extraordinary moment during a 1993 AFCON qualifier, Rufai scored a penalty in Nigeria’s 6–0 win over Ethiopia. The goal remains a unique footnote in Nigerian football history and highlights his versatility and confidence. - “Dodo Mayana”, a nickname that shook the waves
Nicknamed “Dodo Mayana,” Rufai became a fan favorite for his electrifying reflexes and charismatic on-field presence. The moniker became synonymous with excellence in Nigerian goalkeeping and remains an iconic part of his legacy. - Combining education and coaching
In 2023, Rufai returned to the classroom, enrolling at the National Institute for Sports in Lagos to earn his coaching credentials. His move was widely praised as a testament to lifelong learning and his dedication to mentoring future generations. - A journey into football academy
Rufai was deeply passionate about youth development. He founded the Staruf Football Academy in Lagos, where he combined technical training with education, discipline, and character-building for young athletes. - Disciplined and focused
Rufai credited his longevity and success to an unwavering work ethic. He often emphasized the importance of discipline, mental resilience, and giving more than 100%—values that defined both his playing and post-playing career. - France ’98, a World Cup not to be remembered
His final major tournament was the 1998 FIFA World Cup in France. Nigeria’s 4–1 loss to Denmark in the Round of 16 was a painful moment. Rufai later called it the most disappointing match of his career but maintained that the defeat was a collective setback, not an individual failure. - A career ended by illness
Finally, illness set in, and despite his brave battle, Rufai could not overcome it. On Thursday, July 3, 2025, the final whistle sounded—Dodo Mayana could no longer dive, fly, punch, catch, hold, or throw. He is gone.
However, his heroics remain unforgettable and indelible. He will forever be remembered as one of Nigeria’s and Africa’s finest goalkeepers of all time.
May his soul rest in peace.
