Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has come out to mourn the death of legendary Nigerian goalkeeper Peter Rufai.
Dodomayana died on the 3rd of July 2025 at the age of 61 after a long illness.
Speaking via a brief press statement, Atiku extended his condolences to Rufai’s family and the Nigerian football community, describing the late goalie as a national icon whose impact on the game would never be forgotten.
According to him, Peter’s demise is definitely a massive loss to the global football community, but what he did for the nation with his goalkeeping talent will be remembered forever.
“It is with deep sorrow that I mourn the passing of our legendary national team goalkeeper, Peter Rufai, popularly known as Dodomayana. His death is a profound loss to the global football community,” he said.
Hailing Rufai’s legacy, Abubakar stressed that the deceased contributed greatly to the growth of Nigerian football, and his absence would surely be felt henceforth.
Atiku concluded by praying for the peaceful repose of the late goalkeeper’s soul.
“Peter Rufai’s remarkable contributions to the beautiful game will always be remembered. He will be sorely missed,” he added.
His demise has sent shockwaves through the football world, with tributes pouring in from fans across Nigeria and beyond.
Rufai was a towering figure in Nigerian football, respected for his role as first-choice goalkeeper during Nigeria’s victory at the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations and their appearances at the 1994 and 1998 FIFA World Cups.
The goalkeeper earned 65 caps for the national team and enjoyed a successful club career across Belgium, the Netherlands, Portugal, and Spain.
