The Murtala Muhammed Foundation (MMF) has announced the commencement of 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).
Observed in February 2026, the golden anniversary provides an opportunity for national reflection on the enduring legacy of a leader whose brief but transformative tenure reshaped governance, restored discipline in the civil service, and positioned Nigeria as a principled advocate of justice, unity and Pan-Africanism on the global stage.
Speaking on the significance of the milestone, Chief Executive Officer of the Murtala Muhammed Foundation, Dr. Aisha Muhammed-Oyebode, said the commemoration is designed not only to honour the past but also to inspire future generations.
“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.
According to MMF, the commemorative activities will begin on Monday, February 2, 2026, with a Legacy Art Exhibition at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA), Lagos, which will run through February 28. The exhibition will showcase General Muhammed’s life, leadership philosophy and enduring influence through visual art, archival materials and contemporary interpretations, offering insights into his values of discipline, service, unity and national purpose.
On February 5, 2026, Lagos will host a Strategic Policy Workshop in partnership with the NIIA. The session will examine General Muhammed’s role in redefining Nigeria’s foreign policy, with particular focus on his principled Pan-African stance and commitment to African liberation and solidarity.
Remembrance activities will continue on February 6 with an official 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, celebrating defining moments of General Muhammed’s leadership and ideals.
On February 12, Abuja will host an International Memorial Lecture and Leadership Conference, bringing 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.
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 to be observed across the country.
The commemorations will conclude on February 15 with an interdenominational thanksgiving service, reflecting General Muhammed’s commitment to national unity across faiths and communities.
Dr. Muhammed-Oyebode подчеркed that the programmes reflect the enduring relevance of General Muhammed’s ideals in contemporary Nigeria.
“General Muhammed 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 Murtala Muhammed Foundation has invited Nigerians at home and in the diaspora, international partners, civil society organisations and the media to participate in the commemorative activities and join in celebrating a leader whose vision continues to inspire courage, accountability and a renewed sense of national purpose.
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