Burial of Super Eagles Legend Peter Rufai Set for August 22
The burial date for late Super Eagles goalkeeper Peter Rufai, affectionately known as "Dodo Mayana," has been officially announced for Friday, August 22, 2025. The Professional Footballers Association of Nigeria (PFAN) and the Rufai family are finalizing arrangements for the funeral.
Funeral Arrangements and Tribute
Burial Date: The funeral is scheduled to take place in Lagos on August 22nd. While specific events for the day are still being finalized, the date has been confirmed.
PFAN's Involvement: The Professional Footballers Association of Nigeria (PFAN) has been actively involved in the arrangements. A delegation, led by Tajudeen Ajide, visited the Rufai family in Lagos to express condolences and assure them of the association's full support during this time.
Call for State Honours: PFAN has made a public appeal to both the federal government and state governments, including Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), to organize a "befitting send-off" for Rufai. The association has called for a "carnival-like" farewell, arguing that Rufai's dedication to the nation's football team warrants a significant tribute.
Tribute Match: In honor of Rufai's legacy, PFAN is coordinating with the Lagos Sports Commission and the Lagos State Football Association to organize a valedictory football match. This tribute match will also be held in Lagos on August 22nd and is expected to feature various football clubs and academies.
Peter Rufai's Legacy
Golden Era Goalkeeper: Peter Rufai, who passed away on July 3, 2025, at the age of 61, was a central figure in the golden age of Nigerian football during the 1990s. He was the first-choice goalkeeper for the Super Eagles and a key part of the team that won the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations.
World Cup Hero: Rufai represented Nigeria in two FIFA World Cups, USA '94 and France '98, where his stellar performances cemented his status as one of the country's most celebrated goalkeepers.
International Career: His professional career spanned several clubs in Nigeria and Europe, with stints in Belgium, the Netherlands, Portugal, and Spain.
Post-Retirement Efforts: After his retirement from professional football, Rufai remained dedicated to the sport, mentoring young talent through his Staruf Academy and serving as a TV pundit. His death has sparked a nationwide conversation about how Nigeria honours its sporting heroes.
I'm Aisha shehu
Talksocialtalka News
