Murtala @50: African Leaders Demand Strong Institutions to Secure Continent’s Future

Murtala @50: African Leaders Demand Strong Institutions to Secure Continent’s Future

ABUJA, Nigeria — Prominent African leaders and statesmen have renewed calls for the deliberate building of strong institutions and effective governance systems across the continent, declaring that Africa’s true “coming of age” depends on institutional strength rather than political rhetoric.

The call was made at the International Lecture and Leadership Conference held at the Secretariat in Asokoro, Abuja, to commemorate 50 years since the assassination of Nigeria’s former Head of State, . The event was organised by the (MMF) under the theme, “Has Africa Come of Age?”

In her welcome address, Chief Executive Officer of MMF, Dr. Aisha Muhammed-Oyebode, said Africa must now transition from the struggle for political independence to the deliberate construction of enduring institutions.

“The Murtala Muhammed generation fought for political independence; our generation must fight for institutional strength,” she said.

“If Africa demands prosperity on the global stage, we must deliver prosperity at home. If we believe Africa has come of age, then we must build institutions and systems that work for the people and address the leadership challenges confronting our continent.”

Chairman of the Foundation’s Board of Trustees and former Nigerian President, , described General Muhammed’s greatest legacy as the institutions and structures he established during his brief tenure in 1975.

“Murtala Muhammed created institutions that lived after him, something few leaders in our history were able to achieve,” Obasanjo said, recalling the post-civil war period as a defining moment in Nigeria’s national history.

“We were deeply conscious of keeping the country together. As Africans, we must show the world what we stand for and how we manage our differences,” he added, urging leaders to “put our house in order” as a meaningful contribution to Africa’s future.

Delivering the plenary keynote address, former Vice President described Muhammed’s famous declaration that “Africa has come of age” as a call to self-awareness, responsibility and courageous leadership.

“Coming of age is a process. It is the capacity to handle our own affairs and the determination to confront our challenges,” Osinbajo said.

“The fortunes of Africa are in our hands. We must mobilise growth, build development that powers prosperity, and harness the continent’s enormous potential to compete globally.”

Former President said Muhammed’s life demonstrates that leadership is ultimately defined by impact rather than style.

“His legacy tells our youths that they can aspire to the highest offices and commit themselves to leadership and service,” Jonathan said, while questioning why many African leaders spend significant portions of their time abroad despite the continent’s vast human and natural resources.

Also speaking, former Ghanaian President called for unity and political maturity in addressing Africa’s challenges.

“Africa is ageing into civilisation, and there is a need for us to come together,” Kufuor said. “What we enjoy today is built on the sacrifices of leaders like Murtala Muhammed. Our struggle must now be pursued with confidence and maturity.”

The conference drew policymakers, academics, diplomats and youth leaders from across the continent, reflecting on General Muhammed’s legacy and debating whether Africa’s governance systems have evolved to meet the demands of a changing global order.