The family of illustrious former Super Eagles goalkeeper Peter Rufai has announced that he will be laid to rest on August 22, 2025, following a life dedicated to the service of Nigerian football.
Chairman of Professional Footballers Association of Nigeria (PFAN) task force, Prince Harrison Jalla, disclosed this in a statement released yesterday, with a rallying call to the Lagos State governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, National Sports Commission, and the Nigeria Football Federation to honour Rufai with a fitting, carnival-like burial.
Peter Rufai, a celebrated figure in Nigerian football, is remembered not only for his remarkable skills on the pitch but also for his unwavering commitment to the nation.
Jalla stressed the importance of showing appreciation for Rufai’s contributions through a grand farewell.
According to him, a delegation from the Professional Footballers Association of Nigeria (PFAN), led by former international and member of the PFAN Board of Trustees, Tajudeen Ajide; Clement Temile, 1st Vice President of PFAN, Taju Disu, chairman of the Lagos State chapter of PFAN and other notable ex-internationals and officials, visited the Rufai family at their home in Amuwo Odofin Estate, Lagos, on July 30th.
He said during the visit, Hon. Ajide assured the Rufai family of support from the Lagos State government and indicated that the federal government, through the National Sports Commission and the Nigeria Football Federation, would also extend their assistance.
Dele Rufai, representing the family, conveyed their gratitude for the visit, acknowledging its timely nature and the relief it brought.
In a gesture of respect, PFAN is collaborating with the Lagos Sports Commission and the Lagos State Football Association to ensure that all registered football clubs and academies in Lagos State will don their official kits to honour Peter Rufai during a Valedictory Football Match. This event, orchestrated by PFAN, is scheduled for August 22nd, 2025, and will take place at either Teslim Balogun Stadium or Onikan Stadium, pending venue approval for the lying in state.
All divisions of the All Stars International Football Clubs in Lagos State are expected to participate in this significant occasion, as the footballing community comes together to pay tribute to a true legend of the game.
