When it comes to Nigeria’s past military leaders, very few are remembered with admiration—but one name stands out: Murtala Muhammed. His brief time in power is often recalled as a golden era, filled with bold reforms and a vision for a stronger, more united Nigeria.
Birth and Early Life
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.
The Bold Leader Who Took Charge
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.
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Conclusion
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
1. Who was General Murtala Muhammed, and why is he remembered in Nigeria?
Answer: General Murtala Muhammed was a Nigerian military leader who served as Head of State from July 29, 1975, until his assassination on February 13, 1976. He is remembered for his bold reforms, efforts to combat corruption, restructuring of the civil service, and plans to transition Nigeria back to civilian rule. His leadership is often considered a golden era in Nigeria’s history.
2. What were Murtala Muhammed’s major achievements as Nigeria’s Head of State?
Answer: During his brief time in power, Murtala Muhammed implemented significant reforms, including restructuring the civil service, creating seven new states, and initiating the relocation of Nigeria’s federal capital from Lagos to Abuja. He also played a key role in shaping Nigeria’s foreign policy by supporting African liberation movements.
3. How did Murtala Muhammed contribute to Nigeria’s military and governance?
Answer: Murtala Muhammed had a distinguished military career. He served in the United Nations Peacekeeping mission in Congo and led the Second Infantry Division during the Nigerian Civil War. As a military leader, he rose rapidly through the ranks and, as the Federal Commissioner for Communications, was instrumental in modernising Nigeria’s telecommunications sector.
4. What led to Murtala Muhammed’s assassination, and who was responsible?
Answer: Murtala Muhammed was assassinated on February 13, 1976, in Lagos during an attempted coup led by Lt. Col. Bukar Suwa Dimka. His car was ambushed near the Federal Secretariat in Ikoyi, and he was killed alongside his aide-de-camp, Lieutenant Akintunde Akinsehinwa. The coup was quickly suppressed, and Dimka was later executed for treason.
5. What is Murtala Muhammed’s legacy, and how is he honoured in Nigeria today?
Answer: Murtala Muhammed’s legacy lives on through various honours. His face appears on the ₦20 note, and Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos is named after him. He also received several national awards for his service, including the Forces Service Star (FSS) and the General Service Medal (GSM). His leadership and commitment to national progress continue to inspire generations.