President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has described the legacy of former Head of State, Murtala Ramat Mohammed, as a lasting moral compass guiding Nigeria and the African continent in addressing contemporary political and economic challenges.
Tinubu made the remarks during the 50th memorial anniversary of the late military leader, where he was represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume.
The President noted that Mohammed’s courage, discipline, and clarity of vision, despite his brief 201-day administration, secured his place among Nigeria’s most distinguished leaders and continues to inspire Africa five decades after his assassination.
He said he accepted the role of Grand Patron of the memorial conference and book launch following an invitation from former President Olusegun Obasanjo, who chairs the Murtala Mohammed Foundation.
Tinubu reflected on Mohammed’s historic 1976 speech in Addis Ababa at a meeting of the Organisation of African Unity, where he declared that Africa had come of age and should assert its independence from global powers. He described that period as the golden era of Nigeria’s foreign policy, driven by Mohammed’s strong Africa-first stance during the Cold War.
The President also highlighted Mohammed’s commitment to African liberation, particularly Nigeria’s support for independence movements in Angola and Mozambique, which strengthened the country’s leadership role on the continent.
Tinubu further noted the lasting impact of Mohammed’s domestic reforms, including sweeping changes in the civil service, the conceptualisation of the Federal Capital Territory, and the creation of Abuja as Nigeria’s capital, as well as the initiation of a transition programme to civilian rule.
While acknowledging that Mohammed’s tenure was cut short, Tinubu urged African leaders to uphold the late leader’s ideals of accountability, good governance, conflict resolution, poverty reduction, and economic transformation.
He added that Africa’s progress depends on creating opportunities for young people and ensuring improved welfare for citizens, stressing that honouring Mohammed’s memory requires renewed commitment to integrity, patriotism, and service.
Post comments (0)