Reported By Mary Udezue | Edited by: Gabriel Osa
Abuja, Nigeria — Ahmed Musa, Nigeria’s most capped international footballer and one of the most iconic figures in Super Eagles history, has announced his retirement from international football, bringing to a close a distinguished 15‑year career with the national team. The 33‑year‑old forward formally communicated his decision on social media on December 17, 2025, expressing gratitude to Nigerians and reflecting on a career defined by historic achievements and national pride.
In a heartfelt message to fans, teammates, and football stakeholders, Musa wrote that wearing the green and white jersey was one of the greatest honours of his life. “I wore this badge with pride for 15 years,” he said, recalling how his journey began at age 17 and culminated in becoming Nigeria’s most capped player with 111 appearances. Throughout his career, Musa was more than a goal scorer — he became a symbol of Nigerian football, inspiring countless young players across the country.
Musa’s retirement marks the end of an era that saw him become one of the most influential figures in Nigerian sport. His highlights included playing a pivotal role in the Super Eagles’ triumph at the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations, a moment etched in the memories of fans nationwide. He also made history on the world stage by becoming Nigeria’s highest goalscorer at the FIFA World Cup, finding the net in multiple tournaments and earning admiration for his speed, determination and unrelenting work ethic.
Before announcing his retirement, Musa’s relationship with the Super Eagles in recent years became the subject of public debate. Earlier in 2025, he had been omitted from the squad for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, prompting discussion among supporters and analysts about his role and standing in the team. Despite this, many continued to regard him as a leader and invaluable mentor to younger players, given his experience and status as a talismanic figure in Nigerian football.
Musa’s decision follows a glorious career that spanned clubs and continents. Internationally recognised for his pace and tenacity, he featured for top European sides including Leicester City and CSKA Moscow before returning to strengthen the domestic game as a key figure at Kano Pillars, where he also transitioned into a leadership role off the pitch in recent years.
Upon announcing his retirement, Musa expressed deep appreciation to the Super Eagles faithful, coaches, teammates and the Nigerian football community, acknowledging their unwavering support through ups and downs. He reflected on the brothership forged in the national team and reiterated his enduring connection to the sport and his country. “Football gave me a career, but Nigeria gave me meaning,” he wrote.
The reaction across Nigeria has been emotional and widespread. Tributes poured in from former team mates, football administrators, and supporters who celebrated Musa’s contribution to the national team and lauded his commitment to representing Nigeria at the highest levels. Many commentators highlighted not only his on‑field accomplishments but also his role as a mentor and enduring ambassador for Nigerian football.
As Musa steps away from international competition, discussions about his legacy are likely to center on both his sporting achievements and his influence on future generations of Nigerian footballers. His records, particularly in World Cup and Africa Cup of Nations history, place him among the elite ranks of African football legends.
Looking ahead, Musa is expected to remain involved in football through club management and developmental roles. His continued presence in the game, particularly in nurturing young talent, points to a future contribution that could be as impactful off the field as his performances were on it.
For a generation of Nigerian fans, Ahmed Musa’s retirement symbolizes the closing chapter of a storied international career — one that brought joy, pride and unforgettable moments to supporters across Africa and around the world.
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