My Son Will Never Play for Nigeria – Taribo West

Former Super Eagles defender Taribo West has made a heartfelt declaration that his son will never represent Nigeria at the national level. West’s emotional remarks came during the funeral of the late Nigerian goalkeeper Peter Rufai, a legendary figure in Nigerian football.

Peter Rufai, affectionately known as “Dodo Mayana,” was Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper during the nation’s golden era in the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations, where Nigeria were crowned champions, and also during their debut at the FIFA World Cup the same year. Rufai’s passing in July 2025 was a huge loss to Nigerian football.

 

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At the funeral, West openly criticized both the Lagos State Government and the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) for their lack of support and neglect of Rufai’s family during their time of mourning. He expressed deep disappointment that despite Rufai’s contributions to Nigerian football, the family was left to fend for themselves financially, having to solicit for help within their own community.

West revealed the profound emotional impact Rufai’s death had on him, stating that unlike the deaths of his own parents, which did not bring him to tears, Rufai’s passing caused him to break down with goosebumps and tears streaming down his face. This intense grief led West to question the value of dedicating one’s life to the country when heroes are treated with such disregard.

“It’s disheartening that you have Lagos State, you have the Nigerian Football Association. They drop the bulk on the family,” West said. “I felt in my spirit that there is nothing to put your life for. That’s why I say I have to shift back so that I will not implode. It’s grieving.”

He went further to say, “With this kind of example, I will never advise even my son to put his feet for this country. Send me out!”

West’s outburst highlights the frustrations many former Nigerian sports stars feel about the treatment of athletes after their careers end, especially those who have served the country with distinction. His poignant words serve as a call to action for better recognition and support for retired athletes and their families.

The funeral of Peter Rufai thus became not only a moment to mourn a football legend but also a platform for raising awareness about the inadequate support systems for sports heroes in Nigeria. Taribo West’s candid expressions underscore the urgent need for reforms in how Nigerian football and government institutions honor and care for their sports icons.

In summary, Taribo West’s vow that his son will never play for Nigeria stems from his deep disappointment with how Peter Rufai’s family was neglected during a critical time. His emotional testimony sheds light on the broader challenges faced by Nigerian football veterans and the pressing need for structural changes to honor and protect those who have contributed to the nation’s sporting glory.

 

💔 “She said she loved me. And for fifty-two years, I believed her.” 💔

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