Confidence Rufai, daughter of the late Super Eagles legend Peter Rufai, has explained why her father’s illness was kept private, attributing it to his deep desire for a quiet and dignified life.
Rufai, a key member of Nigeria’s 1994 AFCON-winning team, passed away on July 3. His death came as a shock to many, as few were aware of his health condition.
Speaking during a ‘Night of Tributes’ held in his honour at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs in Lagos, Confidence said, “My dad loved privacy. He didn’t want publicity about his condition. He would rather pass on peacefully than remain in the public eye because of illness.”
She added that he was a man of self-respect who never sought public sympathy or attention. “Even in hardship, he preferred to remain silent and composed,” she said.
The tribute night, organised by ex-international Segun Odegbami and sponsored by Air Peace Chairman Allen Onyema, brought together dignitaries from Nigeria’s sporting community.
Confidence hailed her father’s patriotism and selflessness, noting that his service to Nigeria went beyond football. “He felt responsible for those less privileged than us. His dedication to the country was beyond compensation,” she said.
She also revealed that plans for his burial are underway and will be made public soon. “His quiet nature runs in us. We prefer to keep things discreet. More will be revealed gradually,” she added.
Other legends honoured at the event included Moses Effiong, Charles Bassey, Christian Chukwu, and boxing icon Obisia Nwakpa.
Notable attendees included representatives of Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Air Peace’s Allen Onyema, Nigeria Football Federation officials, and former Super Eagles players such as Etim Esin and Waidi Akanni.
