MMF Announces Year-Long Commemoration, 50 years of Gen. Murtala Muhammed’s Ascension to Power

On July 29, 1975, General Murtala Ra- mat Muhammed assumed leadership as Nigeria’s Head of State, marking the beginning of a bold and reform-driven era that continues to shape Nigeria’s governance and Africa’s vision for self-determination.

To commemorate the 50th anniversary of this historic moment, the Murtala Muhammed Foundation (MMF) is launching a year-long programme of activities designed to reflect on his enduring legacy and chart new paths for national for national and continental development.

The golden jubilee commemoration will begin in August 2025 with the rollout of the Murtala Muhammed Legacy Policy Dialogue Series, a monthly high-level convening that will run through January 2026.

The dialogues will bring together policymakers, thought leaders, civil society actors, and development partners to address critical national issues such as anti-corruption, education reform, youth inclusion, food security, entrepreneurship, migration, and digital innovation.

These sessions will serve not only as a reflection of the reforms championed by General Murtala Muhammed but also as an opportunity to generate actionable solutions for the present and future.

Led by the Murtala Muhammed Foundation under the leadership of Dr. Aisha Muhammed-Oyebode, it is important to use this moment not only to remember a leader whose impact was profound, but to reignite the national consciousness that he inspired.