The family of late Super Eagles goalkeeper, Peter Rufai, has announced that his burial will take place on August 22, 2025.
This was revealed 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 home in Amuwo-Odofin, Lagos, on Thursday, July 30.
Jalla, speaking on behalf of the association, called on Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the National Sports Commission, and the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to give the football legend a befitting farewell.
“Peter Rufai deserves a carnival-like burial to honour his service to Nigeria. He was a patriotic and committed servant of the game. The government must rise to support the family at this time,” Jalla said.
He noted that while condolence visits were initially made, the family has since been left without sufficient support.
Leading the PFAN delegation was former international and ex-Surulere LG Chairman, Tajudeen Ajide, a member of the association’s Board of Trustees. Others included Clement Temile (First Vice President), Tajudeen Disu (Lagos State PFAN Chairman), Princewill Gbogbodu (National Treasurer), and Harrison Jalla.
Ajide assured the family of Lagos State Government’s support, while also expressing confidence that the Federal Government would intervene through the National Sports Commission and the NFF.
Speaking on behalf of the family, Dele Rufai expressed appreciation for the visit, describing it as both comforting and timely.
Meanwhile, PFAN is working with the Lagos State Sports Commission and Lagos State Football Association to organize a Valedictory Football Match in honour of Rufai. The event will take place on August 22, the same day as the burial, at either Teslim Balogun Stadium or Onikan Stadium, depending on venue approval.
All football clubs and academies in Lagos are expected to attend in their official kits, alongside members of the All Stars International Football Clubs, in a final show of respect to the legendary goalkeeper.