As Angola marks its 50th year of independence, President João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço’s government has announced that Nigeria’s late Head of State, General Murtala Ramat Muhammed, GCFR, will be posthumously honoured with the country’s National Order of Honour.
In a statement addressed to the Murtala Muhammed family and signed by Angola’s Ambassador to Nigeria, José Bamoquina Zau, the award celebrates the late Nigerian leader’s bold vision and Nigeria’s unwavering support for Angola’s liberation struggle during a defining chapter in its history.
The recognition carries deep historical significance. In 1975, at a time when colonial powers still held sway over parts of Africa, General Murtala Muhammed made a courageous decision by officially recognising and backing the Popular Movement for the Liberation of Angola (MPLA). His stand placed Nigeria firmly on the side of African self-determination and freedom, even in the face of intense international pressure.
Zoyols Blog gathered that the honour is one of the highlights of Angola’s golden jubilee celebration, symbolising lasting gratitude for Nigeria’s solidarity and Murtala Muhammed’s legacy as a fearless advocate of African unity and independence.
