President Bola Tinubu has expressed his deep sadness at the passing of legendary Super Eagles goalkeeper, Peter Rufai, describing him as a patriotic sportsman who wrote his name in gold in the sporting annals of Nigeria and the African continent.
In a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga on Thursday, Tinubu condoled with Rufai’s family, friends, and football enthusiasts on the demise of the iconic goalkeeper.
Tinubu recalled Rufai’s heroic contributions to the Super Eagles, particularly during the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations in Tunisia and Nigeria’s first appearance at the FIFA World Cup in the United States in 1994.
“I recall with fond memories the heroic contributions of Peter Rufai in the historic victory of the Super Eagles at the 1994 edition of the Africa Cup of Nations in Tunisia as the first-choice goalkeeper,” the President said.
The President noted Rufai’s achievements as one of the earliest Nigerian footballers to go professional, playing in several European countries and bringing honor to the nation.
“Rufai was one of the earliest footballers in Nigeria to go professional, playing in many European countries including Belgium, Spain, Portugal, and the Netherlands, bringing honour to the nation and opening a new window of opportunities for young footballers in Nigeria,” Tinubu said.
Tinubu also pointed out Rufai’s contributions to football development in Nigeria, particularly through his Staruf Football Academy, where he mentored and nurtured young footballers.
“After he retired from active football, Peter, a Prince of the Royal House in Idimu, Lagos, set up the Staruf Football Academy, where he continued to inspire, mentor and nurture young footballers,” the President added.
He prayed to God for comfort for the family and all those who mourn Rufai’s loss and for the repose of his soul.
“May God comfort all those who mourn his loss and grant the repose of his soul,” Tinubu said.
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