Angola to Honour Nigeria’s Late Head of State, Murtala Muhammed, at 50th Independence Anniversary

Angola to Honour Nigeria’s Late Head of State, Murtala Muhammed, at 50th Independence Anniversary

As part of activities marking the 50th anniversary of its independence, the Government of the Republic of Angola has announced plans to confer a prestigious National Order of Honour on Nigeria’s late Head of State, General Murtala Ramat Muhammed, GCFR.

In an official communication addressed to the family of the late General and signed by H.E. Ambassador José Bamoquina Zau, Angola’s Ambassador to Nigeria, the award recognizes General Murtala Muhammed’s bold leadership and Nigeria’s critical role in supporting Angola’s struggle for political independence.

“On behalf of His Excellency João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço, President of the Republic of Angola, we are pleased to inform you that His Excellency Murtala Ramat Muhammed, former President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, will be decorated on November 6th with the Class of Honour Medal as part of the celebration of the 50th anniversary of our independence,” the letter stated.

The Ambassador noted that the Medal of Honour is being conferred in appreciation of the unwavering support and solidarity extended by General Murtala Muhammed and the Nigerian people during one of the most critical phases of Angola’s liberation.

In 1975, during a turbulent period of decolonization across Africa, General Murtala Muhammed made a decisive and historic move by officially recognizing the Popular Movement for the Liberation of Angola (MPLA) as the legitimate government of Angola. The bold decision, made in defiance of global pressure, positioned Nigeria as a champion of African freedom and significantly influenced the course of Angola’s independence, which was achieved on November 11, 1975.

Nearly five decades later, Angola’s recognition of Murtala Muhammed’s role is seen as a reaffirmation of Africa’s shared struggle for self-determination and unity. The honour not only celebrates his Pan-African vision but also reinforces his enduring legacy as one of the continent’s most principled and courageous leaders.

General Murtala Muhammed’s leadership, though brief, remains a defining moment in Nigeria’s history — remembered for his integrity, moral conviction, and commitment to African solidarity. The posthumous honour by Angola stands as a powerful testament to his place among Africa’s heroes of liberation and conscience.