Peter Rufai (24 August 1963- 3 July 2025), was a Nigerian professional footballer, who was a Super Eagles captain and World Cup goalkeeper.
PETER RUFAO PROFILE
| Name | Peter Rufai |
| Real Name | Peter Rufai |
| Date Of Birth | 24 August 1963 |
| Date Of Death | 3July 2025 |
| State Of Origin | Lagos State |
| Nationality | Nigerian |
| Occupation | Footballer |
| Religion | Christian |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Net Worth | $1Million |
| Copied From | Contents101.com |
PETER RUFAI BIOGRAPHY
Born on August 24, 1963, in Oshodi, Lagos State, Nigeria, into a royal family from Idimu in Lagos. His father was a tribal monarch, which technically made Peter a prince. Despite the expectation that he would eventually ascend the throne, Rufai chose to pursue his passion for football, rejecting traditional leadership for a career in sports.
EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND
Specific details regarding his educational background are not available.
CAREER
Peter Rufai’s professional football journey began in Nigeria, where he played for Stationery Stores (1980–1984) and Femo Scorpions. He then moved abroad, embarking on a truly international career:
- Benin Republic: Dragons de l’Ouémé
- Belgium: K.S.C. Lokeren, K.S.K. Beveren
- Netherlands: Go Ahead Eagles
- Portugal: S.C. Farense, Gil Vicente FC
- Spain: Hércules CF and Deportivo La Coruña
At Farense, he played a vital role in helping the club qualify for the UEFA Cup in the 1994–95 season.
International Career
Rufai represented the Nigerian national team from 1983 to 1998, earning 65 caps. He was known for his agility, acrobatic saves, and leadership. Key highlights include:
- Winning the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON)
- Participating in two FIFA World Cups (1994, 1998) as Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper
- Scoring a penalty goal against Ethiopia in 1993 during an AFCON qualifier
- Serving as team captain during the 1994 World Cup
CONTROVERSIES
There are no major controversies connected to Peter Rufai.
PERSONAL LIFE
Rufai was known by the nickname “Dodo Mayana”, a term of endearment given by fans for his lively and charismatic performances. After retiring, he:
- Founded the Staruf Football Academy in Lagos
- Ran a goalkeeper school in Spain
- Focused on youth mentorship and grassroots football development
- Returned to school in his later years to earn coaching qualifications
He was a devoted father and husband, though he kept his family life relatively private.
PETER RUFAI NET WORTH
Peter Rufai’s net worth was estimated to be $1 million as of the time of his death.
DEATH
Sadly, Peter Rufai died on July 3, 2025, at the age of 61, in Lagos, after a brief illness. His death sparked tributes across Nigeria and Africa, with many hailing him as one of the greatest goalkeepers the continent has ever produced.