African leaders urged to uphold sovereignty at Murtala Muhammed memorial workshop
African leaders have been urged to defend the continent’s sovereignty and resist foreign interference, with warnings that continued dependence on external powers could undermine Africa’s potential despite its vast natural resources.
The call came during a strategic policy workshop held at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA) to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the assassination of Nigeria’s former Head of State, General Murtala Muhammed.
Themed “Has Africa Come of Age? Murtala Muhammed’s Pan-African Vision 50 Years After”, the event was jointly organised by the Murtala Muhammed Foundation (MMF) and the NIIA. It brought together prominent academics, policymakers, and members of the Muhammed family to reflect on the late leader’s enduring influence on Nigeria and the continent.
In his opening remarks, the Director-General of the NIIA, Professor Eghosa Osaghae, called on African nations to assert themselves confidently on the global stage. He argued that Africa is no longer a passive observer in international affairs but an emerging centre of influence in a multipolar world.
Professor Osaghae reflected on General Muhammed’s 1976 address at the Organisation of African Unity (OAU) extraordinary summit in Addis Ababa, where he declared that “Africa has come of age.” He said the statement symbolised the need for strategic autonomy and self-determined solutions to Africa’s challenges rather than reliance on foreign aid.
Dr Aisha Muhammed-Oyebode, CEO of the MMF, lauded her father’s commitment to Pan-Africanism, highlighting his role in elevating Nigeria’s global status and advancing Africa’s liberation struggles. She noted that his famous declaration continues to inspire the continent’s pursuit of unity, independence, and relevance in world affairs.
Professor Bolaji Akinyemi, former Minister of External Affairs, described General Muhammed as a leader whose governance restored national pride and demonstrated boldness. He said Africa coming of age is not a statement of perfection but a call for responsibility, demanding critical evaluation of political maturity, economic resilience, and institutional strength.
During the panel session, Dr Joshua Bolarinwa of the NIIA and Professor Hassan Saliu of the Nigerian Political Science Association emphasised that Africa has yet to fully realise the vision of self-reliance and strong leadership outlined by General Muhammed. They urged current leaders to take decisive steps to secure Africa’s destiny and uphold its sovereignty.
