Peter Rufai’s Daughter Opens Up on Why Late Goalkeeper Kept His Illness Secret
- Peter Rufai passed away on July 3, 2025, and his illness was private due to a preference for a quiet life
- His daughter has opened up on the ordeal, but branded the late ex-international as an icon who served Nigeria however he could
- Rufai is notable for being the first goalkeeper to score a goal for the Super Eagles, a goal against Ethiopia in 1994 AFCON qualifiers
Peter Rufai's daughter, Confidence, has disclosed that her father's illness was kept private due to his preference for a quiet life.
The former Super Eagles goalkeeper and member of the 1994 AFCON-winning Super Eagles team passed away on July 3.
Popularly known as Dodo Mayana, Rufai was also part of the Super Eagles squad to the FIFA World Cup in 1994 and 1998.
Source: Getty Images
Records have it that he was born in Lagos and went on to earn 65 international caps for Nigeria between 1983 and 1998, per BBC.
He was celebrated alongside three other Nigerian sports icons at a ‘Night of Tributes’ event, organised by Segun Odegbami and sponsored by Air Peace Chairman Allen Onyema.
The event was held at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs in Victoria Island, with prominent figures in Nigerian sports in attendance.
Nigerians were unaware of Rufai’s condition, with many expressing shock following the passing of the late goalkeeper.
Confidence stated that her father wanted privacy while he was ill. She told NAN via Vanguard:
"To those who felt hurt by the secrecy, I apologise. My dad loved privacy. He truly enjoyed a quiet, reserved life.
"He didn’t want publicity about his condition. He would rather pass on peacefully than remain in the public eye because of illness.
"Honestly, he valued his dignity. He never sought public sympathy. Even in hardship, he preferred to remain silent and composed.
"My dad never bragged or sought attention. His sense of self-respect was deep. I see that trait reflected in myself."
She also stated that her father was a selfless Nigerian, adding that he gave everything while serving the country. Confidence added:
Speaking about Rufai’s patriotism, Confidence described him as a selfless Nigerian who gave everything to serve his country. She added:
"When describing someone exceptional, words often fall short. Nigerians will judge him based on what they feel he earned.
"For me, describing my dad goes beyond words. He was a father figure not only to us but to many others.
"He often reminded us that his duty extended beyond family. He felt responsible for those less privileged than us.
"I cannot put a value on how Nigeria can honour him. His dedication to the country was beyond compensation."
Source: Getty Images
Oliseh loses brother
Legit.ng earlier reported that a former Nigerian international and ex-Super Eagles captain, Sunday Oliseh, has confirmed the death of his younger brother, sending the football family into further mourning.
Uche is known for his major contribution in the entertainment world, working as a producer for stars like Danfo Drivers, Flekta Man, Oritse Femi, and many others.
Proofreading by Omoleye Omoruyi, copy editor at Legit.ng.
Source: Legit.ng
