The family of the late Nigerian legendary goalkeeper, Peter Rufai, has issued an official statement concerning the passing on of the former footballer. The statement, signed by 11 members of the family, reads:
“With total submission to the will of Almighty God, it is with a heavy heart that we announce the transition to glory of our father and brother, the legendary former Super Eagles goalkeeper, PRINCE PETER “DODO MANYANA” RUFAI.
“He died at Six O’clock in the morning on Thursday, 3rd of July, 2025, after a brief illness. He was 61 years old.
“Despite our shock and sadness at his rather sudden demise, we are indeed extremely grateful to God Almighty for the impactful life that he granted Prince Peter Rufai through a very successful football career that made him to become world famous.
“From a humble beginning with Sharks Football Club of Port Harcourt in the late 1970s, he rose steadily through the ranks in the national team to become Nigeria’s first FIFA World Cup goalkeeper at USA ’94 and France ’98.
“He also featured at four Africa Cup of Nations finals and played a pivotal role in Nigeria’s victory at Tunisia ‘94. Altogether, he won 66 caps with the national team and scored one goal.
“Prince Peter Rufai also enjoyed a successful club career that took him from home in Nigeria to Benin Republic, Belgium, The Netherlands, Portugal and Spain.
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“He finally returned home to Nigeria after his retirement to set up Staruf Sports Development Limited, through which he got involved in grassroots sports and youth development. That was his full-time engagement until he was called home by his Lord.
“The Rufai Family would like to thank all Nigerians at home and abroad who have been reaching out to us with condolence messages either directly or through the media since the news broke of Prince Peter Rufai’s death.
“We thank everyone for your love and expression of sympathy. A formal announcement of the burial arrangements will be made in due course.”
The family statement was signed by the following: Yomi Bruce Rufai (Younger Brother), Gladys Apata (Elder Sister), Pastor Mrs. Bosede Rufai Lawson Jack (Younger Sister), Dele Rufai Emizibo (Younger Sister), Don Okikiola I. Rufai (Son), Tunde Rufai (Son), Confidence Rufai (Daughter), Biodun Rufai (Son), Bright Rufai (Son) and David Rufai (Son).
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