Nigeria’s Legendary Goalkeeper, Peter Rufai Goes Home August 22
The family of late Super Eagles goalkeeper, Peter Rufai has announced that his remains will be laid to rest on August 22.
Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Professional Footballers Association of Nigeria ( PFAN), Harrison Jalla disclosed this in a statement he released quoting his family when members of the association paid them a condolence visit in his family house at Amuwo- Odofin on Thursday, 30th July 2025,
According to him, the development is a clarion call to the Executive Governor of Lagos State, His Excellency Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the National Sports Commission, and the Nigeria Football Federation to do the needful and ensure that the departed shot stopper gets a befitting burial.
” Iconic ex-international goalkeeper, Peter Rufai, deserves nothing less than a carnival-like, befitting burial from the people of Nigeria and our great country. This is to show our appreciation for a patriotic, dedicated, and totally committed servant who gave his all in the line of duty for Nigeria.
“We therefore call on the Executive Governor of Lagos State, His Excellency Babajide Sanwo-Olu; the Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Mr. Shehu Dikko; and the President of the Nigeria Football Federation, Alhaji Ibrahim Gusau, to brace up and support the Rufai family, who appear to have been abandoned after initial condolence visits.
He explained that PFAN delegation to the condolence visit which was led by ex- International, Tajudeen Ajide, former Chairman of Surulere Local Government Area, a PFAN Board of Trustees member and South-West leader of the association, includes ; Clement Temile, 1st Vice President, Tajudeen Disu, Chairman of the Lagos State chapter of PFAN, Princewill Gbogbodu, PFAN National Treasurer and his humble self
He noted that during the visit, Hon. Ajide strongly assured the family of support from the Lagos State Government noting that the Federal Government, through the National Sports Commission and the Nigeria Football Federation, would also support the family.
In response, the family, represented by Dele Rufai, expressed their appreciation for the visit. She emphasized that the visit was timely and brought great relief to the family.
Meanwhile, PFAN is currently working with the Lagos Sports Commission and the Lagos State Football Association to ensure that all registered football clubs and academies in Lagos State will dress in their official club kits to honour Peter Rufai at the Valedictory Football Match.
This event, organized by PFAN, is scheduled for 22nd August 2025 and will be held at either Teslim Balogun Stadium or Onikan Stadium, depending on which venue is approved for the lying in state.
All divisions of the All Stars International Football Clubs in Lagos State are expected to attend this honourable occasion.
