When it comes to Nigeria’s past military leaders, very few are remembered with admiration—but one name stands out: Murtala Muhammed. His tenure in power, though brief, is often recalled as a golden era, filled with bold reforms and a vision for a stronger, more united Nigeria.
Top 10 Facts About Murtala Muhammed
Early Life: Born on November 8, 1938, in Kano, Murtala Muhammed was raised in a respected religious family, which greatly influenced his formative years.
Education: He was educated at Barewa College, Zaria, and later at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst in England, which set the foundation for his military career.
Military Service: Murtala began his military career in the Nigerian Army and served in various capacities, including participation in United Nations peacekeeping missions.
Rapid Rise: He quickly rose through the military ranks, becoming a Brigadier General by the age of 33 and eventually Nigeria’s Head of State.
Head of State: Murtala Muhammed became the Head of State on July 29, 1975, after a successful coup that overthrew the previous government.
Reforms: His tenure was marked by numerous bold reforms, including the massive restructuring of the civil service and the creation of new states to improve administration.
Abuja as Capital: He initiated the plan to move Nigeria’s capital from Lagos to Abuja, a vision that was realized long after his death.
Foreign Policy: Murtala’s foreign policy was robust, focusing on strengthening Nigeria’s leadership role in Africa and supporting liberation movements across the continent.
Assassination: His life and tenure as head of state were abruptly ended when he was assassinated on February 13, 1976, in a coup attempt led by Lt. Col. Bukar Suwa Dimka.
Legacy: Today, he is commemorated by the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos, his portrait on the ₦20 note, and numerous other honors that celebrate his impact on Nigeria’s history.
From Early Beginnings to National Hero: The Formative Years of Murtala Muhammed
Birth and Early Life of Murtala Muhammed
Born on November 8, 1938, in Kano to Muhammed Riskuwa and Uwani Rahamatu, the Nigerian military leader was raised in a respected religious family with deep ties to the emirate. From an early age, he displayed leadership qualities and a sharp mind, growing up when Nigeria was still under British rule. This environment shaped his strong sense of duty and passion for national service.
A Promising Military Career
Murtala’s military career began after attending Barewa College in Zaria, a school known for producing some of Nigeria’s most outstanding leaders. He then trained at the prestigious Royal Military Academy, Sandhurst, in England, where he gained expertise in military strategy and operations. His skills were further sharpened at the Catterick School of Signals and the Joint Services Staff College, England, making him a highly capable officer.
On returning to Nigeria, his military career took off rapidly. The Nigerian military leader was part of Nigeria’s United Nations Peacekeeping mission in Congo and later played a critical role in the Nigerian Civil War, where he led the Second Infantry Division, which was brutal to civilians and accounted for more Biafran deaths.
His strategic leadership earned him national recognition, and by 33, he had risen to the rank of Brigadier General, becoming one of Nigeria’s youngest and most influential military figures.
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The Bold Leader Who Took Charge
Following a military coup on July 29, 1975, Murtala Muhammed became Nigeria’s Head of State. In just six months, his leadership brought sweeping changes. He cracked down on corruption, restructured the civil service, and laid the groundwork for a return to civilian rule by October 1, 1979.
One of his most visionary moves was the decision to relocate Nigeria’s federal capital from Lagos to Abuja—a plan designed to ease congestion and ensure a more centralised national government. His administration also created seven new states (Bauchi, Benue, Borno, Imo, Niger, Ogun, and Ondo), strengthening regional governance.
Beyond Nigeria, Murtala’s foreign policy was bold and unapologetic. He championed African unity and supported liberation movements across the continent, solidifying Nigeria’s role as a major player in African politics.
A Tragic End
The shattered Mercedes Benz car of the Head of state – General Murtala Mohammed, after the assassination.
On February 13, 1976, Murtala Muhammed was assassinated in an attempted coup led by Lt. Col. Bukar Suwa Dimka. While going to work in Lagos, his unprotected black Mercedes-Benz car was ambushed by soldiers near the Federal Secretariat in Ikoyi.
Despite his prominence as Head of State, Murtala’s approachability and minimal security detail made him vulnerable to attack. He was assassinated alongside his aide-de-camp, Lieutenant Akintunde Akinsehinwa.
The coup plotters’ attempt to overthrow his government was swiftly suppressed, and Dimka was later tried and executed for treason on May 15, 1976. His assassination marked a major moment in African politics, as he strongly advocated for the continent’s unity and independence.
A Legacy That Lives On
Today, Murtala Muhammed’s impact is still deeply felt. His face graces the ₦20 note, and Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos—one of Nigeria’s busiest—is named in his honour. He was also decorated with several national awards, including the Forces Service Star (FSS), General Service Medal (GSM), Meritorious Service Star (MSS), National Service Medal (NSM), and Republic Medal (RM), which recognise his service and sacrifice for the country.
Family & Personal Life
Murtala was married to Ajoke Muhammed, a dentist. Together, they had five children: Aisha, Zakari, Fatima, Risqua Abba, Zeliha, and Jumai.
Conclusion: Celebrating Murtala Muhammed’s Impact on Nigeria
Though his time in power was brief, the Nigerian Military Leader’s fearless leadership and commitment to national progress remain a source of inspiration for generations. His life was a testament to courage, integrity, and a relentless pursuit of a better Nigeria. His unwavering stance against corruption, bold governance reforms, and vision for a united nation cemented his place in history.
Decades after his passing, his legacy continues to shape Nigeria—not just through the monuments and institutions that bear his name, but in the hearts of Nigerians who still draw inspiration from his leadership. His story is a powerful reminder that true leadership is defined by service, integrity, and the courage to drive meaningful change.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about General Murtala Muhammed
Who was General Murtala Muhammed, and why is he remembered in Nigeria?
General Murtala Muhammed was a transformative Nigerian military leader who served as Head of State from July 29, 1975, until his assassination on February 13, 1976. He is renowned for his dynamic leadership style and substantial reforms which include anti-corruption measures, restructuring the civil service, and pushing for a swift transition to civilian rule. His period in office is often viewed as a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s history, ushering in significant governmental changes.
What were the major achievements of Murtala Muhammed during his tenure as Nigeria’s Head of State?
During his short tenure, Murtala Muhammed was responsible for several key reforms that shaped the future of Nigeria. He restructured the civil service to enhance efficiency, created seven new states to improve local governance, and initiated the relocation of Nigeria’s federal capital from Lagos to Abuja to facilitate better administrative operations. Additionally, his administration made significant strides in foreign policy, particularly in supporting African liberation movements, which solidified Nigeria’s position as a leader in Africa.
How did Murtala Muhammed impact Nigeria’s military and governance sectors?
Murtala Muhammed significantly impacted Nigeria’s military and governance sectors through his robust leadership and strategic initiatives. Before becoming Head of State, he served in the United Nations Peacekeeping mission in Congo and was a key military leader during the Nigerian Civil War. His rapid rise through the military ranks showcased his capability and dedication, which he carried into his role in government, notably through his efforts to modernize Nigeria’s telecommunications sector as the Federal Commissioner for Communications.
What circumstances led to the assassination of Murtala Muhammed?
Murtala Muhammed’s assassination on February 13, 1976, was the result of a coup attempt led by Lt. Col. Bukar Suwa Dimka. The attack occurred as he was en route to his office, ambushed near the Federal Secretariat in Ikoyi, Lagos. His minimal security detail and routine schedule made him an accessible target. The coup was ultimately unsuccessful, and Dimka, along with other plotters, were captured and executed for treason.
In what ways is Murtala Muhammed honored in Nigeria today?
Murtala Muhammed’s legacy is preserved in several significant ways across Nigeria. His portrait adorns the ₦20 note, symbolizing his lasting impact on the nation’s economy and governance. The Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos, one of the busiest in Africa, bears his name, serving as a constant reminder of his vision for Nigeria. He is also celebrated annually, with various memorials and educational programs dedicated to his leadership and policies.
What lessons can contemporary leaders learn from Murtala Muhammed’s leadership style?
Contemporary leaders can learn valuable lessons from Murtala Muhammed’s decisive and fearless approach to governance. His commitment to integrity, swift action on corruption, and efforts to decentralize power demonstrate effective leadership strategies that resonate with many today. His ability to enact bold reforms within a short period offers a model of impactful leadership that prioritizes national interest over personal gain.
