Ahmed Musa has announced his retirement from international football, ending a distinguished 15-year spell with the Super Eagles that established him as Nigeria’s most capped player and one of the country’s standout figures of the modern era.
The 33-year-old made the announcement in a statement shared on social media on Wednesday afternoon, describing the decision as the conclusion of a journey defined by pride and service to the nation.
“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, adding that representing Nigeria from his first call-up was an honour he never took lightly.
Musa was a key member of the squad that lifted the Africa Cup of Nations in 2013 and carved out a special place in Nigerian football history at the FIFA World Cup. He became the first Nigerian to score twice in a World Cup match, achieving the feat against Argentina in 2014, and later repeated the landmark by netting twice against Iceland at the 2018 tournament, making him the first Nigerian to score in two separate World Cups.
Reflecting on his career highlights, Musa said the AFCON triumph and his World Cup goals remain unforgettable moments.
“Winning the 2013 AFCON will always stand out. That team truly showed 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 am deeply grateful for.”
He expressed appreciation to former teammates, coaches, backroom staff and football administrators for their support, while also acknowledging Nigerian fans at home and abroad for standing by him throughout his career.
Musa said he leaves the international scene with a sense of fulfilment, confident that he gave his all in national colours and optimistic about the future of the Super Eagles.
“As I step away from international football, I do so with peace and gratitude. I know I gave my best, and I know the Super Eagles will continue to move forward. Once an Eagle, always an Eagle,” he said.
At club level, Musa returned to Kano Pillars in October 2024 for a third spell with the club. He remains with the four-time Nigeria Professional Football League champions and is set to assume the role of general manager ahead of the 2025–26 season.
