Nigeria’s most capped footballer, Ahmed Musa, has officially announced his retirement from international football, bringing an end to a remarkable 15-year journey with the Super Eagles.
Musa made the announcement on Wednesday via a heartfelt message shared on social media, where he reflected on his long-standing commitment to the national team and the pride he felt representing Nigeria on the global stage.
“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.”
Looking back on the early days of his career, the former Eagles captain recalled how his international journey began at a young age, juggling invitations to the U-20, U-23 and senior national teams.
“I was just a young boy when the journey started. I was always travelling, still learning, but I never complained. Whenever Nigeria called, I showed up. It was never something I had to think twice about,” Musa stated.
The 33-year-old holds the record as Nigeria’s most capped player, having featured in 111 matches for the Super Eagles, a milestone he described as a deep honour.
“To play 111 times for my country and become the most capped player in Nigerian football history is something I carry with great respect. Every time I wore the jersey, I understood the responsibility that came with it,” he said.
Musa was a key member of the Super Eagles squad that won the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations and carved his name into World Cup history by becoming the first Nigerian to score more than once in a single FIFA World Cup match, achieving the feat against Argentina in 2014. He later extended that record by scoring twice against Iceland at the 2018 World Cup, making him the first Nigerian to score in two different World Cups.
“Winning the 2013 AFCON will always stand out for me. That team truly showed what it meant to play for Nigeria,” Musa said. “Scoring at the World Cup against Argentina and Iceland are memories I will always treasure. To score four World Cup goals and be Nigeria’s highest goalscorer on that stage is something I’m truly grateful for.”
He expressed appreciation to his teammates, coaches, backroom staff and football administrators for their support throughout his career, while also thanking Nigerian fans at home and abroad for standing by him over the years.
“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,” he added. “Once an Eagle, always an Eagle. Thank you, Nigeria.”
At club level, Musa returned to Kano Pillars in October 2024 for his third spell with the club and has since taken on additional responsibilities, serving as general manager ahead of the 2025/2026 Nigeria Professional Football League season.
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