Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of former Super Eagles goalkeeper, Peter Rufai, describing his passing as a monumental loss to Nigeria and its football community.

In a statement issued on Thursday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Gboyega Akosile, the Governor paid glowing tribute to Rufai, fondly known as “Dodomayana”, noting his immense contributions to Nigerian football and national pride.

“The death of Dodomayana, as Peter Rufai was fondly called, is a painful loss to our country, Lagos State, and Nigeria at large. The country has lost a legend and national icon. He was one of the best Nigerian goalkeepers in football history,” Sanwo-Olu said.

Rufai, a former first-choice goalkeeper for the Super Eagles, represented Nigeria at two FIFA World Cup tournaments in 1994 and 1998. He was also a key part of the historic squad that clinched the African Cup of Nations title in Tunisia in 1994.

“Peter Rufai served Nigeria passionately, winning many laurels for the country in international competitions. He wore the Green-White-Green with pride and was a true ambassador of Lagos and Nigeria,” the Governor added.

Sanwo-Olu extended his condolences to Rufai’s family, friends, teammates, the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF), and the Nigeria Sports Commission. He also acknowledged Rufai’s roots in Lagos, particularly his early days with the iconic Stationery Stores Football Club.

“On behalf of the government and people of Lagos State, I offer my heartfelt condolences to Nigerians and Lagosians, especially those who hold fond memories of Dodomayana. His death is a great loss to us. I am saddened and he will be sorely missed,” Sanwo-Olu stated.

The Governor prayed for the peaceful repose of Rufai’s soul and asked God to grant his loved ones the strength to bear the irreparable loss.