Peter Rufai, Nigeria’s 1994 AFCON‑winning goalkeeper and two‑time World Cup hero, passed away in Lagos at dawn on July 3, aged 61.

The news came as a rude awakening to the football community and Nigerians who are huge fans of the goalkeeper.

Initial reports merely cited a prolonged illness, but Spanish outlet Cadena SER has since reported that Rufai suffered a cardiac arrest at home after struggling with a chronic heart condition.

The leadership of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), former and current Super Eagles players, and many well-wishers, have paid their tributes to the fallen hero, per Vanguard.

Veteran sports journalist, Godwin Enakhena, released an emotional video of late Rufai, where he stated his intention before his demise.

The former chairman of the defunct MFM FC explained that the Super Eagles legend was desperate to publish his book, titled My Story.

"My last interview with Peter Rufai. He desperately wanted to publish his book, My Story, but like a thief in the night, death came visiting. Rest in peace, Dodo Mayana."

The 1994 AFCON winner said plans were underway to launch his book in June. Rufai, who is the first Nigerian goalkeeper to play at any FIFA World Cup, revealed that the book highlights the comparison between ex-internationals and the current crop of players.

"This book is going to be launched in the month of June, early June. The title of this book is 'My Story'. My birthday is coming in August, and I will be 63 years old.

"The book is taking me through the memories with the Nigerian fans and what I have observed about them, the players from that era (ex-Super Eagles stars), compared to this era, and the book is also giving a clear picture of what our performances were on the pitch, individually."

"The book will state how I started my football career right from Port Harcourt, leaving the school, and how I came to Lagos with a night bus. The book is going to give those memories the clarification needed. "I am from Lagos state from my father's side, and my mother is from Port Harcourt in Rivers State; I am a crown prince, the son of a king."

If you are healthy, do look after yourself. It was sad seeing Peter Rufai this way before he passed. Is there any health insurance for former footballers like him or is it something those still playing should think of? pic.twitter.com/6fabUL0RIw

— Dele Olawanle (@dolawanle) July 9, 2025