Gusau hails Ahmed Musa as 'a Rock' as Super Eagles legend retires from International Football

President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Ibrahim Musa Gusau (MON), has showered praise on former Super Eagles captain Ahmed Musa following the forward’s official retirement from international football.

Musa, Nigeria’s most capped international player, brought an end to his illustrious national team career after more than a decade of service, leaving behind a legacy defined by leadership and consistency at the highest level.

Speaking on behalf of the NFF, Gusau hailed the Kano Pillars forward as a stabilising force both on and off the pitch.

“Ahmed Musa was a rock for Nigeria, both on the pitch and in the dressing room. He was a charismatic leader and an amazing patriot who gave his all at all times whenever he was called upon,” Gusau said.

The NFF president also highlighted Musa’s personal qualities, stressing that his character should serve as a model for the next generation of Nigerian footballers.

“The Nigeria Football Federation joins other individuals and entities within Nigeria and globally to celebrate a man whose simplicity and humility, aside from his commitment and zeal to win for Nigeria, remain virtues that should be embraced by upcoming and even established players of our time,” Gusau added.

Ahmed Musa bows out as Nigeria’s record FIFA World Cup goalscorer, having netted four goals across two tournaments, Brazil 2014 and Russia 2018.

His brace against Argentina in 2014 remains one of the most iconic performances by a Nigerian player on football’s biggest stage.

The former Leicester City and CSKA Moscow attacker was also a key member of the Super Eagles squad that won the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations in South Africa.

Beyond that triumph, Musa collected a bronze medal in 2019 and a silver medal in 2023, cementing his place among Nigeria’s most decorated internationals.

Having represented Nigeria at U-20, U-23, and senior levels, Musa finishes his international journey as the country’s most capped player with 111 appearances.