The family of late Super Eagles icon Peter Rufai, fondly remembered as Dodo Mayana, has announced his final journey home, as burial arrangements are now set following his passing on July 3 at the age of 61.
Rufai, a beloved figure in Nigerian football, died in a Lagos hospital after a long-term illness. He was Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper at two FIFA World Cup tournaments and one of the pillars of the nation’s golden football era.
Details of the funeral rites were shared via social media by veteran sports journalist Mumini Alao, with the official programme signed by Sunny Bruce Rufai on behalf of the family.
The ceremonies will begin on Thursday, August 21, with a Service of Songs and public presentation of Rufai’s biography in Amuwo Odofin, Lagos, a tribute to a man whose life was deeply woven into the fabric of Nigerian sport.
On Friday, August 22, a funeral Mass will be held at the Catholic Church of Visitation, First Avenue, Festac Town, starting at 10:00 a.m. Rufai will then be laid to rest at Ikoyi Cemetery.
The family will conclude the ceremonies with a Thanksgiving service on Sunday, August 24, also at the Catholic Church of Visitation.
Peter Rufai’s legacy stretches far beyond the football pitch. He was a commanding presence in goal as the Super Eagles reached the Round of 16 at both the 1994 and 1998 World Cups, and he played a vital role in Nigeria’s historic AFCON triumph in 1994, having previously helped the team to silver in 1984 and 1988.
His international debut came in December 1981, and over the next 14 years, he became a respected figure in Nigerian football, amassing dozens of caps while also building a club career across Belgium, the Netherlands, Portugal, and Spain.
Even after retirement, Rufai remained committed to the game, mentoring young players and briefly serving as the coordinator of Nigeria’s U23 national team.
