LUANDA, Nov. 5 (AGCNewsNet) — The Government of Angola has announced plans to confer a National Order of Honour on Nigeria’s late Head of State, General Murtala Ramat Muhammed, GCFR, in recognition of his decisive support for Angola’s independence 50 years ago.

The award, which forms part of activities marking the country’s 50th Independence Anniversary, will be presented on November 6 under the leadership of President João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço.

In an official letter signed by Angola’s Ambassador to Nigeria, José Bamoquina Zau, the government said the posthumous recognition celebrates General Muhammed’s leadership and Nigeria’s steadfast solidarity with Angola during one of the most critical phases of its liberation struggle.

“On behalf of His Excellency João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço, President of the Republic of Angola, we are pleased to inform you that His Excellency Murtala Ramat Muhammed, former President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, will be decorated with the Class of Honour Medal as part of the 50th Independence Anniversary celebration,” the letter stated.

The communication further emphasized that the Medal of Honour is conferred “in recognition of the unwavering support and solidarity extended by General Murtala Muhammed and the Nigerian people towards the political emancipation of the Republic of Angola.”

In 1975, General Muhammed took a bold diplomatic stance by officially recognizing and supporting the Popular Movement for the Liberation of Angola (MPLA), defying global pressure and aligning Nigeria with Africa’s liberation movements. His decision strengthened continental solidarity, countered apartheid South Africa’s interventionist efforts, and paved the way for Angola’s independence on November 11, 1975.

Nearly five decades later, Angola’s gesture serves as both a tribute to Murtala Muhammed’s Pan-African legacy and a reaffirmation of Africa’s shared struggle for freedom. It underscores the enduring importance of unity, sacrifice, and principled leadership in shaping the continent’s destiny.

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