Family, friends, teammates, and well-wishers gathered yesterday at the Catholic Church of Visitation in Festac Town, Lagos, to pay their last respects to former Super Eagles goalkeeper Peter Rufai, in a burial ceremony marked by glory and tributes.
The ceremony was rich with tributes to the late Nigerian football legend, who was remembered not only for his exploits on the pitch but also for the lasting impact he had on the lives of those closest to him.
In his homily, the officiating priest, Father Simon Okezin, reminded the congregation to be mindful of their actions on earth, noting that the hour of death is uncertain. He further called on the government to improve living conditions by providing essential amenities such as hospitals, stressing that such facilities are crucial for enhancing well-being and reducing preventable deaths.
Reflecting on the legacy of the late Peter Rufai, Father Okezin paid glowing tribute to the former Super Eagles goalkeeper, commending his selflessness and dedication to nurturing young talent in Nigeria. He described Rufai as a “disciplined and polite” man who, despite opportunities to relocate abroad after retirement, chose to remain in the country and invest in the future of Nigerian football through the establishment of a youth academy.
Among the tributes, Rufai’s daughter, Confidence Rufai, gave an emotional speech about her late father, describing him as a strict yet meticulous man who placed a high value on excellence above all else.
Former teammate and ex-international, Sylvanus “Quicksilver” Okpala, also shared fond memories of Rufai, recalling their early years together and how their bond grew as teammates in the national team. “I knew Peter Rufai as far back as 1978.
The ceremony was attended by ex-internationals, members of the former Stationery Stores Supporters Club, the NFF’s Director of Communications, Ademola Olajire, the chairman of the Ogun State Football Association, Alhaji Ganiyu Majekodunmi, veteran sports broadcaster Yomi Opakunle, among others.