Ahmed Musa has officially retired from international football, concluding an illustrious 15-year career with the Super Eagles that solidified his status as one of the most influential figures in Nigerian football history.
Ahmed Musa, 33, confirmed his decision in a message shared on his official Instagram page on Wednesday afternoon, December 17, reflecting on a journey shaped by loyalty, sacrifice and landmark achievements in the national colours.
“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.”
Musa recalled the demanding early years of his international rise, when he was moving constantly between Nigeria’s youth teams and the senior side.
“I was just a young boy when the journey started,” he said. “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.”
That commitment eventually saw him earn a national record 111 caps, a milestone he described as a source of pride and responsibility.
“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,” he said.
Musa’s time in the green and white was defined by moments that reshaped Nigeria’s football story. He was part of the squad that lifted the Africa Cup of Nations trophy in 2013, a success he still regards as a career highlight.
“Winning the 2013 AFCON will always stand out. That team showed what it meant to play for Nigeria,” he noted.
On the world stage, Ahmed Musa etched his name into history at the FIFA World Cup. He became the first Nigerian to score more than once in a single World Cup match after netting twice against Argentina in 2014, before repeating the feat with two goals against Iceland four years later.
“Scoring at the World Cup, against Argentina and Iceland, are memories I will always carry with me,” he said. “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 paid tribute to former teammates, coaches, backroom staff and football administrators, while thanking Nigerian supporters at home and abroad for their unwavering backing 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 the club level, Musa remains closely involved in the game. He returned to Kano Pillars in October 2024 for a third spell and continues with the four-time Nigeria Premier League champions, where he has taken on the role of general manager.
