The National Sports Commission (NSC) has expressed its condolences following the death of former Super Eagles goalkeeper, Peter Rufai, who died at the age of 61. The NSC described Rufai as a significant figure in Nigeria’s sporting history and a respected ambassador for the country in international football.

In a statement issued on Friday, the Commission said Rufai’s contributions went beyond his achievements on the pitch. NSC Chairman, Mallam Shehu Dikko, said the former national team captain left a lasting impression on Nigerian sports.

“Peter Rufai was not just a national hero; he was a rare soul whose humility, strength, and passion inspired all of us,” Dikko said. “His legacy lives on between the sticks and far beyond. Dodo Mayana gave us memories we will cherish forever. Nigeria mourns, but heaven welcomes a legend.”

NSC Director General, Hon. Bukola Olopade, also paid tribute, describing Rufai as “a symbol of excellence and leadership in Nigerian sports.” He added, “His commitment to the game, both on and off the field, was second to none. As we mourn this painful loss, we also celebrate a life that gave so much to Nigerian football.”

Rufai, widely known by his nickname “Dodo Mayana,” played a central role in Nigeria’s victory at the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations and was the team’s first-choice goalkeeper at both the 1994 and 1998 FIFA World Cups, helping the Super Eagles reach the Round of 16 in both tournaments.

His death was confirmed on Thursday morning by former teammates, including Harrison Jalla and Friday Ekpo. Jalla said the former goalkeeper had been ill for about two weeks before passing at 7 a.m.

Rufai also had a professional club career in Europe, where he played in Belgium, the Netherlands, Portugal, and Spain, representing teams such as Deportivo La Coruña and SC Farense.

Tributes have continued to pour in. Former presidential candidate Peter Obi described Rufai as “one of Nigeria’s finest goalkeepers,” saying his saves during the 1994 World Cup and the AFCON campaign gave Nigerians moments they would never forget.

Obi added, “I pray that his family finds comfort in knowing he was loved, respected, and will never be forgotten. May his soul rest in perfect peace.”

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, who contested the 2023 presidential election, called the news a “profound loss to the global football community.” Writing on X, Atiku said, “Peter Rufai’s remarkable contributions to the beautiful game will always be remembered, and he will be sorely missed.”

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) also reacted to the news, with its General Secretary, Dr. Mohammed Sanusi, expressing shock. “Peter Rufai dead? What happened? I am perplexed. We did not even know that he had been ill,” Sanusi said. “We pray to the Almighty God to grant him eternal rest and to comfort all his loved ones as well as the entire Nigeria football family.”

The NSC has extended its condolences to Rufai’s family, his former teammates, and all who were touched by his career and legacy.