Dare Babalola
Ahmed Musa has officially announced his retirement from international football, concluding a distinguished 15-year career with the Super Eagles.
The announcement came through a heartfelt statement shared on social media Wednesday afternoon, where Musa reflected on his journey with the Super Eagles and expressed pride in representing his country.
He said, “After a lot of thought, I have decided to retire from international football, bringing to an end almost 15 years with the Super Eagles.
“From the very first call-up, wearing the green and white meant everything to me.”
Recalling the early days of his international career, Musa said, “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.
“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 was a key player in the squad that clinched the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations title and etched his name in history as the first Nigerian to score multiple goals in a FIFA World Cup match, notably against Argentina at the 2014 tournament.
He went on to make history again in 2018, becoming the first Nigerian to score in two World Cups with a brace against Iceland—a moment he highlighted as one he’ll always treasure.
He said, “Winning the 2013 AFCON will always stand out. That team showed what it meant to play for Nigeria.
“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.”
He thanked his teammates, coaches, backroom staff and administrators for believing in him throughout his career, while also expressing gratitude to Nigerian fans at home and abroad for their unwavering support.
The 33-year-old said he steps away from international football with peace and gratitude, confident that he gave his best and that the Super Eagles will continue to move forward.
“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, Musa returned to Kano Pillars in October 2024 for a third stint and has remained with the four-time Nigeria Professional Football League champions, taking on the role of general manager ahead of the 2025–26 season.
With a record-breaking number of caps and a collection of notable achievements, he cements his place as one of Nigeria’s most decorated and influential modern internationals.
