Sanwo-Olu Hails Murtala Muhammed’s Legacy 50 Years After Death

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has reflected on the enduring legacy of former Nigerian Head of State, General Murtala Ramat Muhammed, describing his leadership as a lasting moral compass for public servants, 50 years after his death.

In a statement to mark the golden anniversary of the late military leader’s passing, Sanwo-Olu said General Muhammed’s memory continues to shape the ideals of leadership, discipline and national responsibility in Nigeria.

The governor noted that despite his brief tenure in office, General Muhammed left behind a leadership template defined by courage, clarity of purpose and decisive action.

“Fifty years after the passing of General Murtala Muhammed, his example still weighs heavily on our sense of duty as public servants,” Sanwo-Olu said.

According to him, the former Head of State governed with firmness and moral authority, demanding discipline and accountability within the civil service and public institutions.

“He led with clarity and firmness. He expected discipline from the civil service and carried Nigeria’s voice with confidence beyond our borders,” the governor stated.

Sanwo-Olu recalled General Muhammed’s bold foreign policy posture, particularly his strong advocacy for justice, African unity and the liberation of oppressed nations, which he said enhanced Nigeria’s standing in global diplomacy.

“His leadership projected Nigeria as a country that stood firmly for justice and African unity. He spoke with confidence and conviction at a time when such clarity was needed,” he added.

The governor stressed that the late leader’s life and service remain a reminder that true leadership is defined not by the length of time spent in office, but by resolve and the courage to act in moments of national responsibility.

“His life reminds us that leadership is not about time spent in office, but about resolve and the courage to act when called upon,” Sanwo-Olu said.

He explained that the 50th anniversary of General Muhammed’s death offers an opportunity for reflection, especially for those in positions of authority at all levels of government.

“Today, at this milestone anniversary, I am reminded of the standard he set. Government must be principled, focused and united in purpose,” the governor noted.

Sanwo-Olu added that the values exemplified by the late Head of State—discipline, integrity, selflessness and national commitment—remain vital to Nigeria’s progress and stability.

According to him, the most meaningful way to honour General Muhammed’s legacy is through sustained commitment to good governance and selfless service.

“The most meaningful way to honour his memory is to keep working towards a nation that lives up to those values,” he said.

General Murtala Muhammed served as Nigeria’s Head of State from July 1975 until his assassination in February 1976. Though his tenure was brief, he is widely remembered for his decisive reforms, emphasis on discipline in public service and strong foreign policy stance that placed Africa at the centre of Nigeria’s global engagement.

Fifty years after his death, tributes from leaders and institutions across the country continue to underscore his influence as a symbol of bold leadership and national purpose.