Peter Rufai, one of Nigeria’s most celebrated goalkeepers and a legend of the Super Eagles, has passed away at the age of 61. According to media sources, Rufai died on the morning of Thursday after a prolonged illness that had kept him away from the public for some time. While the family has yet to release an official statement, a senior Lagos State Government official has confirmed the news.

Rufai was widely respected for his achievements on and off the pitch. He earned 65 caps for the Nigerian national team and played a key role in Nigeria’s victorious 1994 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaign. He also represented the country at two FIFA World Cup tournaments. At club level, he featured for prominent teams including Stationery Stores and Dutch side Go Ahead Eagles. His passing marks the end of an era for Nigerian football.