Foundation to mark 50th anniversary of General Murtala Muhammed’s assassination
A series of national and international commemorative activities to mark the 50th anniversary of the assassination of former Nigerian Head of State, General Murtala Ramat Muhammed (GCFR), has commenced.
Organiser, Murtala Muhammed Foundation (MMF) made the announcement in a statement.
Observed in February 2026, the golden anniversary offers a moment of national reflection on the enduring legacy of a leader whose brief but transformative tenure redefined governance, restored discipline in the civil service, and positioned Nigeria as a principled voice for justice, unity, and Pan-Africanism on the global stage.
Speaking on the significance of the milestone, Dr. Aisha Muhammed-Oyebode, CEO, Murtala Muhammed Foundation, said the commemoration is designed not only to honour the past, but to inspire the future.
“Fifty years on, General Murtala Muhammed remains a moral compass for leadership in Africa. His courage, clarity of purpose, intolerance for corruption, and unwavering belief in national unity are values Nigeria needs now more than ever. This anniversary is not just a remembrance; it is a call to action for the new generation of leaders to govern with integrity, patriotism, and courage,” she stated.
The commemorative activities will commence on Monday, February 2nd, 2026, with a Legacy Art Exhibition at the Nigeria Institute of International Affairs (NIIA), Lagos, running through February 28.
Other activities include, a Strategic Policy Workshop in partnership with the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA), Lagos on February 5, 2026 in Lagos; an official wreath-laying ceremony in Lagos on February 6, a special Juma‘at prayer and graveside observance in Kano, and an International Memorial Lecture and Leadership Conference, on February 12 in Abuja. The conference will bring together global and local thought leaders to examine General Muhammed’s leadership philosophy, anti-corruption drive, and vision for a just, disciplined, and self-reliant Nigeria.
Dr. Muhammed-Oyebode stressed that the programmes reflect the enduring relevance of General Muhammed’s ideals in today’s Nigeria.
Do you have a compelling story to tell? Contact us via our email: espinewsng@gmail.com or call/WhatsApp on 08032519246.
