After featuring against Ghana in the Unity Cup held in London, the France-based player earned his 80th cap for the Super Eagles, bringing him within close reach of legends Nwankwo Kanu and Muda Lawal.
His standout performances with the Nigeria U20 team earned him a senior national team call-up in 2015 under coach Daniel Amokachi, leading to his debut against Uganda in a friendly - coming on as a substitute for Anthony Ujah just before the hour mark.
"It means so much to me, my family, and the friends who constantly encouraged me not to give up," Simon told Flashscore.
"Their support kept me going through tough times. Reaching this point is a big achievement, and I’m truly grateful for everyone who believed in me and stood by me throughout."
The pint-sized forward has been a key figure for Nigeria, contributing nine goals and numerous assists, with standout performances in World Cup qualifiers and Africa Cup of Nations tournaments.
Notably, he played a key role in Nigeria’s second-place finish at the 2023 AFCON, underscoring his consistent impact on the international stage.
If Simon features in Nigeria’s showdown against Steve McClaren’s Jamaica in the Unity Cup final, he would earn his 81st cap. He was asked what that milestone means to his football legacy and what continues to drive his passion for the game.
"If I play against Jamaica, it will be my 81st cap, but ultimately, that decision lies with the coach," he said with a smile.
"Of course, it’s not easy. I just keep going, especially when I think about my past and the journey that brought me to this level.
"What motivates me the most is my family, especially my loved ones back home, and the pride of representing my nation."
When asked if he ever imagined reaching this international milestone, he replied, “Actually, no. I just wanted to play and give my best for the nation."
Chelle salutes Moses’ Nigeria passion
As the Nantes star spoke, Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle warmly interjected, praising Simon’s unwavering commitment and openly expressing his admiration for the player’s professionalism and dedication to representing his country.
"Can I add something? I am so proud of Moses,” said Chelle.
"Whenever it’s a FIFA free day, he calls me saying he wants to come. Most times, I tell him to calm down, but he insists, ‘No, I want to play.’
"This guy wants to play every time for the Nigerian team, every time he wants to win for the country."
Simon is expected to feature prominently for Nigeria in their international friendly against Russia this June.
Moses: Chelle is a man of warfare
Simon, in turn, has paid a glowing tribute to coach Chelle, calling him a "man of war" in recognition of his fearless leadership and unwavering commitment to the Nigerian national team.
He added: "I would say other (past coaches) brought hunger, but Coach Eric Chelle brought war into the team.
"In training, it feels like a battlefield. On match days, you can see the intensity from the first whistle. Even the substitutes know they’re coming in for a war. His motto is war and maybe that’s exactly what we were missing."
The Franco-Malian’s appointment received mixed reactions about whether he was the right choice. So far, he has stayed unbeaten in his first three games.
However, his main goal is to help the 2013 African champions qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
