Abuja is currently hosting a high-profile gathering of Nigerian and international leaders for the 50th Murtala Muhammed International Lecture and Leadership Conference, commemorating the life and legacy of the late Head of State General Murtala Ramat Muhammed.
Murtala Muhammed ruled Nigeria from July 1975 until his assassination on February 13, 1976.
Among the prominent dignitaries in attendance are:
– Former President Olusegun Obasanjo
– Former President Goodluck Jonathan
– Former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo and his wife, Dolapo Osinbajo
– Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume
– 14th Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II
– Hajia Ajoke Muhammed, widow of the late Head of State
– Dr. Aisha Mohammed Oyebade, daughter of General Murtala Muhammed
The event has also attracted international figures, including:
– Former Malawian President Joyce Banda
– Former Ghanaian President John Kufuor
– President of Sierra Leone, Ernest Bai Koroma
Members of the diplomatic corps, academia, industry leaders, and other notable personalities are also participating in the conference.
The gathering provides a platform to reflect on Murtala Muhammed’s leadership, his bold reforms during his brief tenure, and his enduring impact on Nigeria’s political and economic landscape.
Recall that Aisha Muhammed, one of the late Head of State’s daughters, recently shared insights into the circumstances surrounding her father’s assassination. She attributed it to his modest lifestyle and uncompromising stance against corruption, which made him a target.
The conference continues to draw attention as participants honour one of Nigeria’s most consequential military leaders.
