Long before he became a celebrated figure in Nigerian football, Peter Rufai was already known by the distinctive nickname “Dodo Mayana,” a moniker that would define his iconic career marked by acrobatic saves and calm goalkeeping.
In one of his final public interviews on the Popular Side Podcast, Rufai shared the humble yet captivating origin of his famous nickname, revealing it stemmed from a blend of humility, admiration, and a significant moment in Portugal.
His journey to “Dodo Mayana” began in the early 1980s when a young Rufai joined the national team camp.
Surrounded by legendary goalkeepers like Emmanuel Okala, Best Ogedengbe, and Peter Fregene, Rufai adopted an approach of observation, service, and continuous learning.
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He recalled, “I joined the camp in 1981. Every morning before training, you’ll see me sitting in front of Emmanuel Okala’s door waiting for him to open so I could carry his boots. I’d do the same for Fregene and the others. I’d bring their boots to the bus, and after training, I’d offer to clean them.”
This dedication to service deeply moved Fregene, who then gave him the initial nickname “Dodo.”
The name evolved further during a 1982 training session in Portugal, led by Brazilian coach Otto Gloria.
Rufai, stepping into goal after his senior colleagues, delivered a stunning performance. He fearlessly dived for all 30 shots, captivating the fans with his flair and bravery.
Rufai recounted, “The fans loved the way I was going for the ball.2 They were shouting, but I didn’t realize it was for me at first.”
Then, the chant began: “Dodo!” followed by “Amaya!” Rufai recalled, “They pointed to me, shouting ‘Dodo!’ and ‘Amaya!’ I turned and made a gesture that we had training again tomorrow. Then they said, ‘Amayana Dodo,’ and I replied, ‘Dodo Amayana.’”
In Portuguese, “Amayana” means “tomorrow,” thus “Dodo Amayana” symbolized the fans’ desire to see the promising goalkeeper perform again the next day.3 This cheer quickly transformed into his identity.
“When you say, ‘Dodo Amayana,’ I reply, ‘Amayana Dodo.’ That’s how the fans and I connected. They preferred calling me that over Peter. And when someone calls me Dodo Amayana, I know they truly know me,” Rufai explained.
From that memorable moment in Portugal through his appearances in the 1994 and 1998 World Cups, “Dodo Mayana” transcended a mere nickname.
It became a symbol of Peter Rufai’s bold spirit, his beloved status among fans, and his foundational respect for the football greats who preceded him. His story, much like his name, remains unforgettable.
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