MONROVIA – Former President George Oppong Manneh Weah has joined Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to mourn the passing of the legendary Super Eagles goalkeeper, Peter Rufai. He was 61.
In his condolence to the bereaved family and the People of Nigeria, former President Weah, who is yet the only African who have won the Ballor d’Dor back in 1995, posted on his X (formerly twitter) page: “A REALLY SAD DAY FOR FOOTBALL.
“The passing of legendary Nigerian football icon Peter Rufai is a big blow. I fondly remember his heroic leadership as captain of the Super Eagles, guiding the team to win the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations.
“As a contemporary, I came to greatly admire his skill and dedication. His towering presence in goal—especially during Nigeria’s historic 1994 World Cup debut—remains etched in our memories.
“My deepest condolences go to his family, the Super Eagles, and the Nigerian people. May his legacy continue to inspire generations.”
Responses to Weah’s Condolence Message
One John, who has the X handle @ImaredonJ posted: “Thank you the legendary George weah, I appreciate your contribution to world football and scoring those vital goals for Chelsea FC. Your name will be etched in history for eternity.”
Hakeim Kenneh: “Thank you, Mr. President, for honoring his legacy.”
ND @Ophacy: “God bless you, former President Weah.”
Osinachi Oguike @MASINACHIMYKIEL: “Nigerians appreciate you former Liberia President and only Africa man to win balloon d’or.”
Peter Rufai
The late Nigerian goalie made some heroic contributions in the historic victory of the Super Eagles at the 1994 edition of the Africa Cup of Nations in Tunisia as the first-choice goalkeeper. He followed up with Nigeria’s equally epoch-making, first appearance at the FIFA World Cup competition, dubbed USA ’94.
Rufai was also a strong member of the Nigerian Super Eagles at the subsequent edition of the competition in France in 1998.
He is said to have started his career with Stationery Stores of Lagos in 1980. Rufai was one of the earliest footballers in Nigeria to go professional, playing in many European countries including Belgium, Spain, Portugal and the Netherlands. He brought honor to his nation and opened a new window of opportunities for young footballers in his country.
Following his retirement from active football, Peter, a Prince of the Royal House in Idimu, Lagos, set up the Staruf Football Academy, where he continued to inspire, mentor and nurture young footballers.
Sad Day for World Football
Thursday, July 3rd, was not just a sad day for Nigerian yea African football lovers. It was also for world football. As news of the death of Rufai filtered out early Thursday, a very melancholic newsflash also came out for Diogo Jota and Andre Silva, the brother of Diego Jota. Both professional footballers who plied their career in England and Portugal, died in a car crash earlier Thursday in Spain.
