The government and people of Angola have paid glowing tribute to Nigeria’s late former Head of State, General Murtala Ramat Muhammed, in recognition of his historic role in supporting Angola’s struggle for independence.
At a special award ceremony held in Luanda as part of Angola’s 50th Independence Anniversary, Angola also honoured former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo and former Minister of External Affairs, Professor Ibrahim Gambari.
According to a statement made available to PUNCH Online on Saturday, the Angolan government acknowledged Nigeria’s decisive support during the country’s liberation struggle against Portuguese colonial rule in the mid-1970s.
General Murtala Muhammed, who ruled Nigeria between 1975 and 1976, was among the first African leaders to recognise the Popular Movement for the Liberation of Angola (MPLA) government — at a time when Angola faced economic blockade and fierce opposition from Western powers.
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Nigeria also provided a crucial financial lifeline of $17 million to help Angola rebuild and withstand international pressure, reinforcing the country’s sovereignty.
Speaking at the event, President of the Angola–Nigeria Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Tangyalamba Veloso, praised Murtala Muhammed’s bold foreign policy stance.
“He told oil companies, if you pull out of Angola and don’t return their resources, you will pull out of Nigeria as well. You won’t have Angola nor Nigeria to help your finances,” Veloso recounted.
She added that Muhammed’s courageous position not only changed Angola’s fate but also cemented Nigeria’s legacy as a defender of African freedom and solidarity.
“He was the first to provide financial assistance — $17 million — and the first president to recognize Angola as an independent country,” she said, drawing applause.
The ceremony highlighted Nigeria’s historical leadership on the continent and celebrated a legacy of African unity anchored on shared struggle and mutual respect.