Family announces burial date for Super Eagles legendary goalkeeper Peter Rufai

The family of late Super Eagles goalkeeper, Peter Rufai, has announced that he will be laid to rest on August 22, 2025, republican.com.ng reports.

This was made known by Harrison Jalla, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Professional Footballers Association of Nigeria (PFAN), following a condolence visit to the Rufai family residence in Amuwo-Odofin, Lagos, on Thursday, July 30.

Jalla used the occasion to call on key stakeholders — including Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the National Sports Commission, and the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) — to ensure that the football icon receives a befitting burial.

> “Peter Rufai was a patriotic and dedicated servant of Nigerian football. He deserves a dignified, carnival-like burial to reflect the immense pride and honour he brought to the nation. It’s time for the relevant authorities to step up and do the needful,” Jalla said.

He noted that despite earlier condolence visits, the family appears to have been left to shoulder preparations alone.

The PFAN delegation was led by Tajudeen Ajide, a former international and past Chairman of Surulere Local Government. Other members included Clement Temile (PFAN First Vice President), Tajudeen Disu (Chairman, Lagos PFAN), Princewill Gbogbodu (PFAN National Treasurer), and Jalla himself.

During the visit, Hon. Ajide assured the family that the Lagos State Government would support the burial plans. He also expressed optimism that the Federal Government, through the Sports Commission and NFF, would extend necessary assistance.

In response, Dele Rufai, who spoke on behalf of the family, thanked the association for the visit, describing it as timely and uplifting.

Meanwhile, PFAN is working with the Lagos State Sports Commission and the Lagos State Football Association to organise a Valedictory Football Match in Rufai’s honour on the day of the burial. The match will be held at either Teslim Balogun Stadium or Onikan Stadium, subject to final approval.

All registered football clubs and academies in Lagos are expected to attend the event in full team kits. Additionally, all divisions of the All Stars International Football Clubs across the state will also be present to honour one of Nigeria’s most celebrated goalkeepers.