Ahmed Musa has announced his retirement from international football, ending a 15 year career with the Super Eagles.
The announcement was made in a statement shared on Wednesday, where Musa reflected on his time with the national team and his experiences representing Nigeria.
“After a lot of thought, I have decided to retire from international football, bringing to an end almost 15 years with the Super Eagles,” he said.
“From the very first call-up, wearing the green and white meant everything to me.”
The 33-year-old recalled that his international journey began when he was still a teenager, receiving invitations to Nigeria’s under 20, under 23 and senior national teams at the same time.
“I was just a young boy when the journey started. I remember being invited at the same time to the U-20, U-23 and the Super Eagles. I was young, still learning, and always travelling, but I never complained. Whenever Nigeria called, I showed up. It was never something I had to think twice about,” he said.
The former Super Eagles captain earned 111 caps for Nigeria, making him the most capped player in the history of Nigerian football.
“Playing 111 matches for my country is something I hold with deep respect. To become the most capped player in the history of Nigerian football is a great honour. Every time I wore the jersey, I understood the responsibility that came with it,” Musa said.
Musa was part of the Super Eagles squad that won the Africa Cup of Nations in 2013.
He also made history at the FIFA World Cup, becoming the first Nigerian to score more than once in a World Cup match after netting twice against Argentina in 2014.
He later became the first Nigerian to score in two different World Cups, scoring twice against Iceland in 2018.
“Winning the 2013 AFCON will always stand out. That team showed what it meant to play for Nigeria,” he said.
“Scoring at the World Cup, against Argentina and Iceland, are memories I will always carry with me. To score four goals at the World Cup and be Nigeria’s highest goalscorer on that stage is something I am truly grateful for.”
Musa also reflected on his time as captain of the national team, saying the role taught him lessons about responsibility and supporting others.
“Being captain of the Super Eagles was another important part of my journey. Wearing the armband taught me a lot, about responsibility, patience, and putting others first,” he said.
He thanked former teammates, coaches, backroom staff and administrators, as well as Nigerian fans at home and abroad, for their support throughout his career.
“As I step away from international football, I do so with peace and gratitude. I know I gave my best. I know the Super Eagles will continue to move forward. And I know that this bond will never be broken. Once an Eagle, always an Eagle. Thank you, Nigeria. Thank you for everything,” he said.
At club level, Ahmed Musa returned to Kano Pillars in October 2024 for a third stint.
He currently plays for the club and is set to take on the role of general manager ahead of the 2025 to 2026 season.
