Nigeria Honours Late Head of State, Gen. Murtala Muhammed, at Wreath-Laying Ceremony in Abuja
Abuja — The Federal Government, members of the diplomatic community, the Nigerian Armed Forces and family members on Wednesday gathered in Abuja to honour the late former Head of State, General Murtala Ramat Muhammed, at an official wreath-laying ceremony commemorating his enduring legacy of leadership and patriotism.
The solemn ceremony, held at the Murtala Muhammed Memorial in the Federal Capital Territory, drew dignitaries from within and outside Nigeria, who paid glowing tributes to the late military leader widely remembered for his bold reforms and commitment to national unity.
Among dignitaries present were the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume; representative of the Angolan President, Dr. Dionisio Manuel Da Fonseca; Chief Executive Officer of the Murtala Muhammed Foundation, Aisha Muhammed-Oyebode; son of the late leader, Risqua Muhammed; and the Chief of Administration, Nigerian Army, Major General I. M. Abdullahi, who represented the Chief of Army Staff.
Speaking at the event, participants described General Muhammed as a courageous and visionary leader whose short tenure significantly shaped Nigeria’s political and administrative structure. They noted that his decisive actions in 1975–1976 laid foundations for reforms in public service discipline, anti-corruption efforts and national integration.
Senator Akume said the annual remembrance offers Nigerians an opportunity to reflect on the values of integrity, accountability and service to the nation which the late Head of State embodied. He stressed that the Federal Government remains committed to preserving the ideals of selfless leadership and patriotism championed by Muhammed.
The representative of the Angolan President, Dr. Da Fonseca, also commended Nigeria’s historical role in supporting liberation movements across Africa during the era of General Muhammed, describing him as a continental figure whose influence extended beyond Nigeria’s borders.
In her remarks, Aisha Muhammed-Oyebode said the Murtala Muhammed Foundation continues to promote good governance, youth empowerment and national development initiatives in line with the ideals of the late leader. She urged young Nigerians to embrace discipline, courage and public service.
The Nigerian Army, represented by Major General Abdullahi, laid a wreath on behalf of the Chief of Army Staff, while other dignitaries also paid floral tributes amid military ceremonial honours.
General Murtala Muhammed ruled Nigeria from July 1975 until his assassination on February 13, 1976. Nearly five decades after his death, speakers at the ceremony said his legacy of decisive leadership, transparency and national unity remains relevant to Nigeria’s democratic and developmental aspirations.
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