(DDM) – The Government of Angola has announced plans to posthumously honour Nigeria’s late Head of State, General Murtala Ramat Muhammed, as part of its 50th Independence Day celebrations.
According to Diaspora Digital Media (DDM), the Angolan authorities said the recognition was in appreciation of Murtala Muhammed’s unwavering support for Angola’s independence struggle during the 1970s, a period marked by political instability and foreign intervention in the Southern African region.
Angola, which gained independence from Portugal on November 11, 1975, will mark its golden jubilee this month, with world leaders, diplomats, and liberation heroes expected to be honoured for their contributions to the country’s freedom and stability.
In a statement released in Luanda, the Angolan government described Murtala Muhammed as a fearless Pan-African leader who stood firmly for the liberation of oppressed nations across Africa.
The statement praised Nigeria’s decisive diplomatic and military backing during the Angolan civil conflict when the country, under Murtala’s leadership, recognized the Marxist-oriented MPLA government led by Agostinho Neto, a move that changed the course of the continent’s postcolonial politics.
Diplomatic observers note that Murtala Muhammed’s recognition is a symbolic reminder of Nigeria’s influential role in the anti-colonial movements of the 1970s.
During his short but impactful rule between July 1975 and February 1976, Murtala made bold foreign policy decisions that redefined Nigeria’s global image.
He openly challenged Western interference in African affairs and championed the cause of self-determination for nations still under colonial domination.
Historians recall that his fiery address at the Organisation of African Unity (OAU) Summit in Addis Ababa in 1976 remains one of Africa’s most powerful speeches against imperialism.
His statement, “Africa has come of age”, became an enduring slogan of African pride and sovereignty.
Tragically, General Murtala Muhammed was assassinated in a failed coup on February 13, 1976, just months after taking power.
Despite his brief tenure, he is widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s most visionary and principled leaders.
The Angolan government said the posthumous award would be presented to representatives of the Nigerian government and Murtala Muhammed’s family at the official Independence Day ceremony in Luanda.
Political analysts believe the honour reflects a broader recognition of Nigeria’s historic commitment to African unity a legacy that continues to influence continental diplomacy.
Murtala Muhammed’s inclusion among Angola’s honorees is also expected to reignite discussions about Nigeria’s foreign policy direction and its declining moral influence in African affairs.
The honour, coming 50 years after Angola’s independence, serves as both a tribute to the past and a reminder of the sacrifices made by African leaders who believed in freedom and solidarity across the continent.