From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
President Bola Tinubu has paid tribute to the late Peter Rufai, describing the legendary Super Eagles goalkeeper as a patriotic sportsman who wrote his name in gold in Nigerian and African football history.
In a statement mourning Rufai’s passing at age 61, issued by Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu highlighted the goalkeeper’s pivotal role in Nigeria’s football glory, especially as the first-choice goalkeeper during the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations victory in Tunisia and Nigeria’s historic debut at the 1994 FIFA World Cup in the United States.
“Peter Rufai will be remembered as one of those patriotic sportsmen who wrote their names in gold in the sporting annals of Nigeria and the African continent,” the President said. He recalled Rufai’s heroic contributions that helped elevate Nigerian football on the world stage, including his participation in the 1998 World Cup in France.
President Tinubu also noted Rufai’s trailblazing club career across Europe, where he played professionally in Belgium, Spain, Portugal, and the Netherlands, paving the way for future generations of Nigerian footballers.
Beyond his playing days, Rufai, a prince from the Royal House of Idimu, Lagos, founded the Staruf Football Academy, dedicating himself to mentoring young talents.
“After he retired from active football, Peter continued to inspire, mentor, and nurture young footballers,” the President added, praying for comfort for all who mourn his loss and for the repose of his soul.
He noted that Peter Rufai’s legacy as a composed, agile, and charismatic goalkeeper who earned 65 caps for Nigeria and helped the Super Eagles to multiple international successes remains firmly etched in the nation’s sporting memory.