NFF Denies ‘Abandonment’ Claims As Chukwu, Rufai Laid To Rest

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has clamped down on circulating news that the body refused to take responsibility and offer financial assistance to late  Christian Chukwu and Peter Rufai who have now been laid to rest.

This is in response to Nigeria veteran defender Taribo West vehement outburst during the burial ceremony of Peter Rufia, maintaining that the Federation has treated past heroes poorly and as such, the country doesn’t deserve their loyalty.

Let’s bring it home lads! https://t.co/S9jfoYXZN5

— The NFF 🇳🇬 (@thenff) August 5, 2025

NFF in response to this made the following statement;

“The Nigeria Football Federation stood in solidarity with two of our legends as they were laid to rest.

“In support of the burial rites of Christian Chukwu, the NFF provided financial assistance to his family, and was represented by Executive Committee Member Chief George Aluo, Barr. Okey Obi, and Mr. Chikelue lloenyosi.

“Similarly, at the funeral mass of Peter Rufai in Lagos, the NFF also offered financial support to his family. The delegation included Executive Committee Member Alhaji Ganiyu Majekodunmi and Dr. Ademola Olajire.

“We honour their service, celebrate their legacy, and extend our continued support to their families,” the statement ended.

Rufai, fondly known as “Dodo Mayana,” passed away in July at the age of 61. He was Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper during their triumphant 1994 Africa Cup of Nations campaign and also played at the country’s debut FIFA World Cup later that year in the United States.