Nigeria’s most capped international, Ahmed Musa, has announced his retirement from international football, ending a distinguished 15-year career with the Super Eagles.

Musa made the announcement on Wednesday via a statement shared on social media, reflecting on his journey and the pride he felt representing Nigeria.

“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 33-year-old recalled his early days with the national teams, noting that he was once invited simultaneously to the U-20, U-23 and senior national sides.

“I was just a young boy when the journey started. I was young, still learning, and always travelling, but I never complained. Whenever Nigeria called, I showed up,” he said.

Musa retires as Nigeria’s most capped player, having earned 111 appearances for the Super Eagles.

“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,” he stated.

During his international career, Musa won the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations and etched his name into history at the FIFA World Cup. He became the first Nigerian to score more than once in a World Cup match after netting twice against Argentina in 2014, and later became the first Nigerian to score in two different World Cups with a brace against Iceland in 2018. He remains Nigeria’s highest goalscorer in World Cup history with four goals.

“Winning the 2013 AFCON will always stand out. Scoring at the World Cup against Argentina and Iceland are memories I will always carry with me," he said.

He expressed gratitude to teammates, coaches, backroom staff, administrators and Nigerian fans for their support throughout his career.

“As I step away from international football, I do so with peace and gratitude. I know I gave my best. Once an Eagle, always an Eagle,” he concluded.

At club level, Musa returned to Kano Pillars in October 2024 for a third stint and currently serves as the club’s general manager ahead of the 2025–26 Nigeria Professional Football League season.