Former Super Eagles defender Taribo West has strongly criticized the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and the Lagos State Government over their alleged neglect of the family of late goalkeeper Peter Rufai.
Speaking during Rufai’s service of songs in Lagos on Thursday, August 22, 2025, West accused both bodies of abandoning the family of the iconic shot-stopper, who passed away earlier this month.
“They Let Rufai’s Family Beg for Burial Funds” – West
In his emotional remarks, West expressed outrage that Rufai’s family had to seek public support to raise funds for his burial despite his enormous contributions to Nigerian football.
“Rufai was a legend who gave everything for Nigeria, yet his family had to beg to bury him. This is the same way they treated Stephen Keshi, Rashidi Yekini, and many others. I swear, I will never allow my son to play for Nigeria,” West said.
Rufai’s Legacy
Peter Rufai, fondly known as “Dodo Mayana,” was Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper at the 1994 and 1998 FIFA World Cups. He earned 65 international caps for the Super Eagles and was celebrated for his leadership on and off the pitch.
Despite his achievements, reports of financial struggles in his later years highlighted the long-standing issue of poor welfare and lack of post-career support for Nigerian football legends.
Mixed Reactions from Football Community
While West’s comments drew widespread sympathy, some former teammates offered a different perspective. Waidi Akanni, another ex-Super Eagles player, claimed that Lagos State had provided support to Rufai’s family.
However, West’s fiery outburst has reignited conversations about how Nigeria treats its sporting heroes, with many fans and analysts calling for a structured welfare system for ex-internationals.
Ongoing Debate on Welfare for Legends
The debate over the treatment of Nigerian football legends is not new. Similar concerns were raised following the deaths of stars like Stephen Keshi, Rashidi Yekini, and Samuel Okwaraji, whose families also faced financial and emotional struggles after their passing.
West’s passionate intervention has once again spotlighted the urgent need for reform in how Nigeria’s football authorities and government institutions support the men and women who brought glory to the nation.
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