By Peter Omopo
Former Super Eagles captain Ahmed Musa has announced his retirement from international football, bringing to an end a distinguished 15-year career with the Nigerian national team.
Musa made the announcement on Wednesday via a statement shared on his official X handle, saying the decision followed “a lot of thought.” He described representing Nigeria as the highest honour of his career.
“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,” he said.
Recalling the early days of his career, Musa said he received invitations to the U-20, U-23 and senior national teams around the same time, adding that he never hesitated whenever Nigeria called.
During his international career, Musa earned 111 caps, making him the most-capped player in the history of Nigerian football. He was part of the Super Eagles squad that won the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations and is Nigeria’s highest goalscorer at the FIFA World Cup, with four goals, including braces against Argentina at the 2014 tournament and Iceland in 2018.
“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,” Musa said, noting that he always understood the responsibility that came with wearing the national jersey.
He described winning the 2013 AFCON as one of the standout moments of his career and said scoring at the World Cup remains a lifelong memory.
Musa also reflected on his time as Super Eagles captain, saying the role taught him responsibility, patience and selflessness, especially in supporting younger players and upholding the values of the national team.
“Football gave me a career, but Nigeria gave me meaning,” he said.
The former captain expressed gratitude to his teammates, coaches, backroom staff and administrators over the years, thanking them for their support and belief in him throughout his international journey.
