Murtala @50: Experts urge Africa to prioritise sovereignty over aid

Foreign policy experts have urged African leaders to assert their sovereignty and reduce dependence on foreign aid, warning that continued reliance could stifle the continent’s development despite its vast resources.

The call came during a strategic policy workshop at the Nigeria Institute of International Affairs (NIIA), Lagos to mark the 50th anniversary of the assassination of General Murtala Muhammed, Nigeria’s former military head of state. The event, themed: “Has Africa Come of Age? Murtala Muhammed’s Pan-African Vision 50 Years After,” was organised by the Murtala Muhammed Foundation (MMF) and the NIIA.

Dr Eghosa Osaghae, the director-general of the NIIA, said Africa must reclaim its voice on the global stage, adding that the continent can no longer be treated as an appendage of world powers. He noted that General Murtala’s 1976 speech at an OAU summit in Addis Ababa emphasised strategic autonomy and African solutions to African problems.

“When General Murtala said Africa had come of age, he was saying Africa must chart its own path, not follow others. Today, his message resonates: African challenges require African solutions,” Osaghae said.

Dr Aisha Muhammed-Oyebode, the chief executive officer of the MMF, highlighted her father’s Pan-African vision, describing it as a rallying cry for African unity, independence and leadership in global affairs. She urged young Africans to pursue careers in diplomacy, governance and development to advance the continent’s interests.

Prof Bolaji Akinyemi, a former minister of external affairs, said Africa must confront unfinished business from independence and critically assess its political, economic and institutional maturity.

Panelists, including Dr Joshua Bolarinwa of the NIIA and Prof Hassan Saliu of the Nigerian Political Science Association, echoed concerns that Africa is yet to fully realise Murtala Muhammed’s vision of self-reliance, courageous leadership and sovereignty defence.

They stressed that achieving his vision required bold leadership, accountability and a decisive shift from aid dependence to self-determined development.

Nigerians can now invest ₦2.5 million on premium domains and profit about ₦17-₦25 million. All earnings paid in US Dollars. Rather than wonder, click here to find out how it works.

Join Daily Trust WhatsApp Community For Quick Access To News and Happenings Around You.