Remembering “Dodo Mayana,” the King Who Chose Football
The Nigerian football community is grieving the loss of one of its most respected figures, Peter Rufai. Fondly known as Dodo Mayana, Rufai passed away at the age of 61 on July 3, 2025.
More than just a goalkeeper, he was a trailblazer, a leader, and a source of pride for millions of Nigerians. From his royal roots to his footballing legacy that spanned continents, Rufai’s life was packed with moments that shaped Nigerian football history.
Here are 29 things you should know about the man who helped put Nigeria on the world football map:
1. Born into Royalty
Peter Rufai was born in Lagos on August 24, 1963, into a royal family in the Idimu area. He was next in line to become king but chose football instead.
2. Dodo Mayana Wasn’t Just a Nickname
The name became iconic. It captured his bold personality and the confidence he brought to the pitch.
3. Among the First Nigerians to Play in Europe
He broke barriers by playing professional football in top European leagues, something few Nigerian goalkeepers had done at the time.
4. Goalkeeper with a Goal
Rufai made history in 1993 when he scored a penalty against Ethiopia during an AFCON qualifier, the first by a Nigerian goalkeeper for the national team.
5. AFCON Hero
In 1994, he was the rock in goal as Nigeria clinched its second Africa Cup of Nations title.
6. A World Cup Pioneer
He stood between the sticks for Nigeria in both the 1994 and 1998 World Cups, the first Nigerian goalie to play at that level.
7. Making Waves in Portugal
At S.C. Farense, his goalkeeping helped the team qualify for the UEFA Cup for the first time ever.
8. La Liga Highlights
While with Deportivo de La Coruña, he once kept a clean sheet in a tense 1–0 victory, proving he could shine even in one of Europe’s toughest leagues.
9. A Veteran of 65 Caps
Rufai proudly represented Nigeria 65 times, becoming one of the most experienced goalkeepers the country has ever had.
10. Started From Lagos Streets
His journey began with local sides like Stationery Stores F.C. and Femo Scorpions, where his talents were first noticed.
11. First Taste of International Football
His move to Benin Republic in 1986 was his stepping stone to the bigger stages of European football.
12. Belgian Years
He played in Belgium for six years, with stints at K.S.C. Lokeren and K.S.K. Beveren, gaining valuable European experience.
13. Dutch League Cameo
In the Netherlands, he had a solid run with Go Ahead Eagles in the Eredivisie, appearing 12 times in one season.
14. A Tough Year in Spain
His time with Hércules CF was challenging. He struggled for game time, and the team ended up getting relegated.
15. Winding Down in Portugal
He finished his professional playing days at Gil Vicente FC, wrapping up a career that spanned over two decades.
16. Giving Back with Staruf Academy
In 2010, he launched a football academy in Lagos, aiming to develop young talent while promoting education.
17. Teaching Goalkeeping in Spain
Even after retirement, Rufai stayed in the game, running a goalkeeping school in Spain.
18. A Nightmare for Penalty Takers
He had a reputation for stopping penalties with lightning-fast reflexes and calm nerves.
19. World Cup Captain
In 1994, he captained Nigeria at the World Cup, earning admiration for his leadership and composure.
20. Football in the Family
His son, Senbaty Rufai, also pursued a career in football, aiming to follow in his father’s footsteps.
21. AFCON Regular
He featured in four AFCON tournaments (1984, 1988, 1990, 1992) before finally lifting the trophy in 1994.
22. Discipline Was His Secret
Rufai credited his long career to his strict discipline and work ethic, qualities he passed on to younger players.
23. Worst Match of His Career
The 4–1 defeat to Denmark at the 1998 World Cup haunted him for years. He often said it was his most painful experience in football.
24. Big on Books and Balls
He constantly advocated for young athletes to focus on education just as much as sports.
25. Honoured by Nigeria
In 2021, he received a house in Abuja, a national recognition for his contribution to Nigeria’s 1994 AFCON triumph.
26. Recognised Worldwide
His Wikipedia biography exists in over 20 languages, proof of his global football legacy.
27. Inspired Future Eagles
His style and presence influenced a new generation of goalkeepers, including Vincent Enyeama.
28. Worked with the U-23 Team
After hanging up his gloves, he contributed to Nigerian football as a U-23 team coordinator.
29. A Legend, Forever Remembered
Peter Rufai passed away on July 3, 2025. The Nigerian Football Federation called him a “giant of Nigerian football”, a fitting tribute for a man who gave everything to the game.