Former Super Eagles goalkeeper Peter Rufai will be laid to rest on August 22, with calls growing for a state-level tribute to the late football legend.
The Professional Footballers Association of Nigeria (PFAN) has urged the Lagos State Government, the Nigeria Football Federation, and the National Sports Commission to give Rufai what it described as “a carnival-like, befitting burial.”
“Rufai deserves nothing less from Nigeria,” PFAN said in a statement signed by key members. “This was a man who gave everything on and off the pitch. He served with dedication and never disappointed the nation.”
PFAN specifically called on Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Sports Commission Chairman Shehu Dikko, and NFF President Ibrahim Gusau to support the Rufai family, saying they appear “abandoned” since the early condolence visits.
A delegation from PFAN, led by ex-international Tajudeen Ajide, visited the Rufai family at their home in Amuwo Odofin, Lagos. Other members of the group included Clement Temile, PFAN’s first vice president, Lagos PFAN chairman Taju Disu, and national treasurer Princewill Gbogbodu.
During the visit, PFAN promised to work with the Lagos Sports Commission and the state’s Football Association to honour Rufai with a valedictory football match on the day of the burial.
All football clubs and academies in Lagos are expected to attend the match, dressed in full club colours. Teslim Balogun Stadium and Onikan Stadium are being considered as venues, depending on approval.
Ajide assured the family that support would come from both the Lagos and Federal governments.
“This man was a national icon. He cannot go like this quietly. He deserves to be celebrated properly,” he said.
Responding on behalf of the family, Dele Rufai thanked PFAN for the solidarity, saying the visit brought comfort.
“It means a lot to us. My brother was a patriot. Knowing that people still remember him lifts our spirits,” he said.
Rufai, widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s finest goalkeepers, made 65 appearances for the Super Eagles and was part of the 1994 AFCON-winning team. He also featured at the 1994 and 1998 FIFA World Cups.
