Ahmed Musa has announced his retirement from international football, drawing the curtain on a remarkable 15-year career with the Super Eagles that saw him become Nigeria’s most capped player and one of the country’s most accomplished modern internationals.

The 33-year-old made the announcement in a statement shared on social media on Wednesday, reflecting on his journey and the honour of representing Nigeria at the highest level.

“After a lot of thought, I have decided to retire from international football, bringing to an end almost 15 years with the Super Eagles,” Musa said.

“From the very first call-up, wearing the green and white meant everything to me.”

Recalling the early stages of his career, Musa spoke of the commitment and sacrifices that defined his rise.

“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.

Musa also reflected on the significance of earning 111 caps for Nigeria, a record that places him atop the country’s all-time appearance list.

“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 noted.

During his international career, Musa won the Africa Cup of Nations with Nigeria in 2013 and etched his name into World Cup history. He became the first Nigerian to score more than once in a single FIFA World Cup match, netting twice against Argentina in 2014, and later became the first Nigerian to score in two World Cups after grabbing a brace 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.”

He expressed appreciation to his teammates, coaches, backroom staff and football administrators for their support over the years, while also thanking Nigerian fans at home and abroad for their unwavering loyalty.

Musa said he leaves international football with a sense of fulfilment and confidence in the future of the national team.

“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 remains with the four-time Nigeria Professional Football League champions. He is also set to take on the role of general manager ahead of the 2025–26 season.