By Tayo Olu
Veteran sports journalist and respected communications strategist, Femi Soneye, has paid a heartfelt tribute to late Nigerian football legend, Peter Rufai, who passed away at the age of 61 on Thursday.
Taking to his Facebook page to express his grief, Soneye recalled the special connection he shared with the revered former Super Eagles captain — a relationship that went beyond the pitch.
“In loving memory of the legendary Peter Rufai. You were not just a national icon, but a truly good man,” Soneye wrote. “I’ll never forget how you honoured me by celebrating my 50th birthday and even stood proudly in goal during our football match — a moment I will forever cherish.
“Your kindness, humility, and greatness left a mark on all who knew you. Rest in eternal peace, Legend. May God comfort and strengthen your family through this painful loss.”
Soneye, who began his journalism journey as a sports reporter in 1998 and has since worked in Nigeria, Australia, and the United States, joined thousands of Nigerians in mourning the loss of the man fondly called “Dodomayana.”
Peter Rufai, widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s greatest-ever goalkeepers, died in Lagos following a prolonged illness. A trailblazer in Nigerian football, Rufai earned 65 caps, captained the national team, and featured in two FIFA World Cups — USA ’94 and France ’98.
He was a central figure in Nigeria’s historic 1994 Africa Cup of Nations triumph in Tunisia and holds the distinction of being the first Nigerian goalkeeper to play professionally in Europe, turning out for clubs in Belgium, the Netherlands, Portugal, and Spain. On the home front, he rose to fame with Stationery Stores of Lagos.
Reacting to the news, former Super Eagles coach Kadiri Ikhana described Rufai’s death as a painful blow. “Rufai was a dedicated sportsman who gave his all to the growth and development of football in Nigeria. His contributions to the Super Eagles were immense and unforgettable,” Ikhana said.
Beyond his achievements on the field, Rufai was a beacon of humility and a passionate advocate for youth development. He founded the Staruf Football Academy and pioneered the “Dodomayana Soccerthon,” initiatives that empowered young Nigerians through football and education.
The President of the Nigeria Football Federation, Ibrahim Gusau, described Rufai as “a true Nigerian legend who inspired generations of players and fans.”
Born in Lagos in 1963 to a royal family in Idimu, Rufai turned down the throne to pursue his dream of becoming a footballer — a decision that shaped the future of Nigerian sports history.
His legacy, both as a football icon and a builder of dreams, will live on in the hearts of many.
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