By Marvellous Nyang
February 12, 2026
Former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo delivered the keynote address at the 50th anniversary International Lecture and Leadership Conference commemorating the assassination of Murtala Muhammed, one of Nigeria’s most celebrated Heads of State, in Abuja on Thursday.
The lecture, organised by the Murtala Muhammed Foundation in partnership with the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs, was held under the theme “Has Africa Come of Age?” borrowed from the late general’s historic 1976 address to the Organisation of African Unity, delivered just 34 days before his assassination.
In his address, Osinbajo said the theme remains a powerful challenge for the continent to assert self‑determination, deepen accountability and build resilient, people‑centred institutions. “Africa must shape its own destiny with courage, clarity and an unshakeable belief in our collective capacity,” he said.
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He highlighted General Murtala Mohammed’s bold reforms during his brief tenure, including public service restructuring, state creation and laying foundations for Nigeria’s capital relocation, noting that his Pan‑African vision continues to inspire leaders across Africa half a century later.
The event brought together dignitaries from across the continent and beyond, including former Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Goodluck Jonathan, former Presidents John Agyekum Kufuor and Ernest Bai Koroma, former President Joyce Banda, former Vice President Namadi Sambo, the Emir of Kano Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, Mrs Ajoke Murtala Muhammed, widow of the late general, Dr Aisha Muhammed Oyebode, CEO of the foundation, and Ambassador Joe Keshi, National President of the Association of Retired Career Ambassadors of Nigeria.
Osinbajo called on current and future leaders to embrace the legacy of integrity, service and accountability exemplified by General Murtala Mohammed, saying that Africa’s “coming of age” is a continuous process demanding courage and responsible leadership.
He urged leaders to focus on building strong institutions and harnessing the continent’s human and natural resources to drive sustainable growth and global competitiveness, adding that the general’s ideals still resonate across generations.
The lecture reaffirmed the enduring relevance of Murtala Mohammed’s vision for African unity, self‑reliance and dignified leadership fifty years after his tragic death.
