The late former Super Eagles goalkeeper, Peter Rufai, was on Friday laid to rest at the Ikoyi Cemetery in Lagos.
Rufai passed away on July 3, 2025 at the age of 61 after a prolonged illness.
The funeral service was held at the Catholic Church of Visitation, Festac, Lagos.
A Disciplined And Fulfilled Man
In his homily, Father Simon Okezin extolled Rufai’s exploits, contributions and to development of football in Nigeria.
Okezin described him as a “disciplined and fulfilled”man that gave his best to the country during his active days.
“Peter Rufai was a disciplined, and fulfilled personality.He gave Nigerians so much joy with his performance on the field. He represented the country well, and was very popular outside the country too,” he said.
“After his retirement, he set to up an academy to train young footballers. He did this, even he when had the opportunity of returning abroad. He felt the need to give back to the society.
“He was disciplined, polite, and nice. He was always willing to help others.”
Rufai, A Global Icon
Bruce Sani Rufai, the younger brother of the deceased described him as a calm character.
“I would say Peter’s death is a big loss to Nigeria. We all know he created a big impact in world football during his playing days. When the news of his death went viral, people started calling me from different parts of the world. From China, Asia, Europe, America, different places.
“It was then that I realised how popular he was. Even in Spain where I’m based, people started calling me. Less than 30 minutes after his death was announced, I started receiving calls from different people.
“I must confess, I must still in shock. It’s difficult to believe that my dear brother is no more. He mentored me, while I was young. He was like my father, he was always there for me in every situation.
“I’m really going to miss a lot things about him. His charisma, and advice. He taught me how to fight for my right. Peter was a quiet guy, always calm, and calculative like when he was in goal.
“We will also miss him . I tried several times to lure back him back to Europe, but he was eager to give back to the society here. He wanted to groom young talents. It’s important that i take up that, and not allow his dream to die.”
A Passionate Goalkeeper
Rufai’s former teammate, Sylvanus ‘Quick Silver’ has positive things to say about the deceased.
“I met Peter Rufai for the first time in 1978 during my time with the Green Eagles (now Super Eagles). He was in the Flying Eagles then,” Okpalla disclosed.
“We were part of the squad to the 1982 Africa Cup of Nations. He was our third-choice goalkeeper then. Peter was passionate about football. He doesn’t like losing.”
Notable Guests In Attendance
Dignatories at the burial were Senior Special Assistant to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Grassroots Sports Development, Adeboye Adeyinka, Nigeria Football Federation, NFF, Executive Member Ganiyu Majekodunmi, NFF’s Director of Communication Ademola Olajire, ace broadcaster Yomi Opakunle, and members of Stationery Stores Supporters club.
By Adeboye Amosu