Ahmed Musa has officially brought the curtain down on his international football career, stepping away from the Super Eagles after nearly 15 years of service that saw him become Nigeria’s most capped player and one of the national team’s most enduring figures.
In a heartfelt message to Nigerians and football fans around the world, the former Super Eagles captain said he was stepping away from the national team with pride, gratitude and fulfilment, describing the opportunity to represent Nigeria as the defining chapter of his football journey.
“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,” Musa said.
The Kano Pillars forward recalled that his international journey began at a young age, when he was simultaneously receiving invitations to the U-20, U-23 and senior national teams. Despite the physical and mental demands, he said representing Nigeria was never a burden.
“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 went on to describe his 111 appearances for the Super Eagles — a national record — as a privilege he carries with deep respect, noting that playing for Nigeria was always bigger than personal ambition.
“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.
Reflecting on career-defining moments, Musa highlighted Nigeria’s 2013 Africa Cup of Nations triumph as one of his most cherished achievements.
“Winning the 2013 AFCON will always stand out. That team showed what it meant to play for Nigeria,” he said.
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He also pointed to his performances at the FIFA World Cup, where his four goals — including memorable strikes against Argentina and Iceland — made him Nigeria’s highest goalscorer in the competition’s history.
“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 added.
As captain of the Super Eagles, Musa said the role shaped his understanding of leadership beyond football.
“Wearing the armband taught me a lot about responsibility, patience and putting others first. Even during difficult times and criticism, my commitment to Nigeria never changed,” he said.
Musa expressed appreciation to former teammates, coaches, football administrators and Nigerian fans at home and abroad, acknowledging their support throughout his international career.
“Football gave me a career, but Nigeria gave me meaning,” he said, adding that he leaves international football “with peace and gratitude.”
Confident in the future of the Super Eagles, the veteran forward closed his message with words that resonated deeply with fans.
“Once an Eagle, always an Eagle. Thank you, Nigeria. Thank you for everything.”
Ahmed Musa exits the international stage not only as a record-holder, but as a lasting symbol of dedication, resilience and unwavering service to Nigerian football.
National Accord Newspaper
