Foundation Unveils Activities For Ex-Head Of State Murtala’s 50th Memorial

The Murtala Muhammed Foundation (MMF) has unveiled a series of national and international activities to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the death of former Head of State, General Murtala Ramat Muhammed.

The late General Muhammed, who ruled Nigeria from July 1975 until his assassination in February 1976, will be remembered with events scheduled to hold throughout February 2026.

Announcing the programme, the Foundation said the golden jubilee offers Nigeria an opportunity for national reflection on the enduring legacy of a leader whose brief but impactful tenure reshaped governance, restored discipline in the civil service and projected Nigeria as a principled voice for justice, unity and Pan-Africanism.

Speaking on the significance of the milestone, Chief Executive Officer of the Foundation, Dr. Aisha Muhammed-Oyebode, said the commemoration was designed to honour the past while inspiring future leadership.

“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 said.

According to the Foundation, activities will commence on February 2, 2026, with a Legacy Art Exhibition at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA), Lagos, running until February 28. The exhibition will showcase General Murtala’s life, leadership philosophy and enduring influence through visual art, archival materials and contemporary interpretations.

On February 5, Lagos will host a Strategic Policy Workshop in partnership with the NIIA, focusing on Murtala’s role in redefining Nigeria’s foreign policy, particularly his Pan-African stance and commitment to African liberation.

Remembrance activities will continue on February 6 with a wreath-laying ceremony in Lagos, followed by a special Juma’at prayer and graveside observance in Kano. A welcome reception and commemorative dinner will hold on February 11.

An International Memorial Lecture and Leadership Conference is scheduled for February 12 in Abuja, bringing together local and global thought leaders to examine Murtala’s leadership philosophy, anti-corruption drive and vision for a just and self-reliant Nigeria.

The anniversary date, February 13, will be marked by solemn events in Abuja, including a wreath-laying ceremony, commemorative Juma’at prayer, an Anti-Corruption Day and a National Moment of Silence across the country. The programmes will conclude on February 15 with an interdenominational thanksgiving service.

Muhammed-Oyebode said the activities underscored the continued relevance of late General Murtala’s ideals.

“General Murtala believed deeply in the dignity of public service, decisive leadership, and national renewal. Through these activities, we are ensuring that his vision continues to inspire future generations to serve with integrity, patriotism, and purpose,” she added.

The Foundation invited Nigerians at home and in the diaspora, as well as international partners and civil society organisations, to participate in the commemorations.

Meanwhile, the Foundation recalled that Angola, last November, honoured General Murtala for his historic contributions to the country’s independence and Nigeria’s commitment to African solidarity. The recognition took place in Luanda during Angola’s 50th Independence Anniversary, with authorities noting that Nigeria, under Murtala’s leadership, was among the first to recognise the Popular Movement for the Liberation of Angola and provided a $17 million financial lifeline during a period of international isolation.