Nigeria’s most capped footballer, Ahmed Musa, has announced his retirement from international football, drawing the curtain on a 15-year career with the Super Eagles marked by historic milestones and major tournament successes.
Musa made the announcement on Wednesday via a statement shared on his social media platforms, where he reflected on his journey and the honour of representing Nigeria at the highest level.
“After much reflection, I have decided to retire from international football, bringing to an end almost 15 years with the Super Eagles,” he said. “From my very first call-up, wearing the green and white meant everything to me.”
Recounting the early phase of his career, Musa said he was called up simultaneously to Nigeria’s U-20, U-23 and senior national teams, a period he described as demanding but fulfilling.
“I was just a young boy when it all started. I was constantly travelling and still learning, but I never hesitated. Whenever Nigeria called, I answered. It was never a decision I had to think twice about,” he stated.
The 33-year-old attacker retires as Nigeria’s most capped international, having made 111 appearances for the national team — a feat he said he holds with deep pride.
“Reaching 111 caps and becoming 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 a key member of the Super Eagles squad that won the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations in South Africa. He also etched his name into history at the FIFA World Cup, becoming the first Nigerian to score more than once in a single 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 at the 2018 tournament.
“Winning the 2013 AFCON will always stand out for me. That team truly represented what it meant to play for Nigeria,” he 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 scorer on that stage is something I’m very grateful for.”
Musa expressed appreciation to his teammates, coaches, administrators and fans for their support throughout his international career.
“As I step away, I do so with peace and gratitude. I know I gave my best, and I am confident the Super Eagles will continue to move forward,” he added. “This bond will never be broken. Once an Eagle, always an Eagle.”
At club level, Musa returned to Kano Pillars in October 2024 for a third spell and has remained with the Nigeria Professional Football League side. He is also set to assume the role of general manager ahead of the 2025/2026 season
