Muhammed Anniversary Policy Workshop Explores Legacy

African leaders were urged to prioritize the protection of their nations’ sovereignty, with warnings that failing to do so could perpetuate dependence despite the continent’s abundant natural resources. This call to action occurred during a strategic policy workshop held at the Nigeria Institute of International Affairs, commemorating the 50th anniversary of the assassination of General Muhammed Muritala, a former Head of State of Nigeria. The event, jointly organized by the Muritala Muhammed Foundation (MMF) and The Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA), centered on the theme “Has Africa Come of Age? Muritala Muhammed’s Pan-African Vision 50 Years After.”

Opening Remarks and Global Assertiveness

The Director-General of the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs, Dr. Eghosa Osaghae, emphasized the need for Africans to reclaim their assertiveness on the global stage. He argued that Africa is evolving into a significant center of influence within a multipolar world, no longer a mere extension of world powers. Dr. Osaghae referenced General Muritala’s historic 1976 speech in Addis Ababa, where he declared that Africa had come of age, advocating for local solutions to the continent’s challenges and a move away from reliance on foreign aid. He stated that Africa must now define its own path and be its own master.

Muritala Muhammed’s Legacy and Pan-Africanism

The Chief Executive Officer of the Muritala Muhammed Foundation, Dr. Aisha Muhammed-Oyebode, praised her father’s commitment to Pan-Africanism, highlighting its role in elevating Nigeria and Africa’s standing on the global stage. She emphasized his leadership in the continent’s liberation struggle and described his famous declaration, “Africa has come of age,” as a continuing source of inspiration for unity and independence in international affairs. The foundation organized the event to encourage young Africans to pursue careers in diplomacy, governance, and international development to address the continent’s challenges.

Assessment of Africa’s Progress

Professor Bolaji Akinyemi, former Nigeria Minister of External Affairs, described the late General Murtala Muhammed as a leader who instilled pride in Nigeria and whose governance efforts were unparalleled. He underscored the importance of honest self-assessment as Africa navigates a changing global order, stating that declaring Africa has come of age is not a claim of perfection, but a recognition of responsibility. He called for a critical examination of political maturity, economic resilience, institutional strength, and cultural confidence.

Unfulfilled Vision and Leadership Deficit

Deputy Research at the NIIA, Dr. Joshua Bolarinwa, argued that Africa has yet to fully realize the vision of self-reliance and courageous leadership articulated by General Muhammed nearly five decades ago. He attributed this to a current leadership deficit and urged leaders to defend Africa’s destiny with determination. Professor Hassan Saliu, President of the Nigerian Political Science Association (NPSA), echoed this sentiment, stating that Africa and Nigeria have not yet fulfilled General Murtala Muhammed’s vision regarding sovereignty defense, unity, liberation, and freedom, as expressed in his Addis Ababa speech.