7 Jun
1994 MMF Annual Lecture
Home News 1994 – MMF Annual Lecture 1994 MMF Annual Lecture Theme: “Indiscipline and Corruption: Which Way Out?” Keynote Speaker: Justice Akinola Aguda Summary: Justice Aguda delivered a powerful critique of the pervasive issues of indiscipline and corruption plaguing Nigeria. The lecture explored the root causes of these problems, their impact on society, and potential solutions, including the need for stronger institutions, ethical leadership, and citizen engagement. Key Insights: The detrimental effects of indiscipline and corruption on national development. The importance of individual accountability and ethical behavior. The role of education and cultural change in fostering a more disciplined and ethical society. The need for comprehensive reforms in the justice system and law enforcement. Recent Posts 2013 MMF Annual Lecture June 7, 2024 2012 MMF Annual Lecture June 7, 2024 2011 MMF Annual Lecture June 7, 2024 2010 MMF Annual Lecture June 7, 2024 2007 MMF Annual Lecture June 7, 2024
READ MORE7 Jun
1993 MMF Annual Lecture
Home News 1993 – MMF Annual Lecture 1993 MMF Annual Lecture Theme: “The Foundation for a Stable Democratic Nigeria: The Economic Dimension” Keynote Speaker: Chief Ernest Shonekan, Head of Government & Chairman of the Transition Council of Nigeria Summary: Chief Shonekan emphasized the crucial link between economic development and the successful establishment of a stable democracy in Nigeria. The lecture delved into economic reforms, fiscal policies, and the importance of creating an enabling environment for business and investment. Key Insights: The necessity of sound economic management for political stability. The importance of private sector participation in economic development. The need for targeted investments in infrastructure and human capital. Recent Posts 2013 MMF Annual Lecture June 7, 2024 2012 MMF Annual Lecture June 7, 2024 2011 MMF Annual Lecture June 7, 2024 2010 MMF Annual Lecture June 7, 2024 2007 MMF Annual Lecture June 7, 2024
READ MORE7 Jun
1992 MMF Annual Lecture
Home News 1992 – MMF Annual Lecture 1992 MMF Annual Lecture 1992 Theme: “Nigeria of Our Vision” Keynote Speaker: General Sani Abacha, Chief of Defense Staff & Defense Minister Summary: General Abacha outlined his vision for a prosperous and united Nigeria. The lecture explored the nation’s security challenges, economic development strategies, and the importance of a strong military in safeguarding the nation’s future. Key Insights: The need for national unity and security. The importance of economic diversification and self-sufficiency. The role of the armed forces in maintaining peace and stability. Recent Posts 2013 MMF Annual Lecture June 7, 2024 2012 MMF Annual Lecture June 7, 2024 2011 MMF Annual Lecture June 7, 2024 2010 MMF Annual Lecture June 7, 2024 2007 MMF Annual Lecture June 7, 2024
READ MORE7 Jun
1991 MMF Annual Lecture
Home News 1991 – MMF Annual Lecture 1991 MMF Annual Lecture 1991 Theme: “We Have Kept Faith” Keynote Speaker: General Ibrahim Babangida, Head of State, Federal Republic of Nigeria Summary: In this inaugural lecture, General Babangida addressed the challenges and opportunities facing Nigeria’s national development, with a focus on the importance of regional integration in Africa. He emphasized the government’s commitment to economic reform and social progress. Key Insights: Nigeria’s role as a regional leader in Africa. The necessity of economic reforms to unlock the nation’s potential. The importance of national unity and social cohesion. Recent Posts 2013 MMF Annual Lecture June 7, 2024 2012 MMF Annual Lecture June 7, 2024 2011 MMF Annual Lecture June 7, 2024 2010 MMF Annual Lecture June 7, 2024 2007 MMF Annual Lecture June 7, 2024
READ MORE
30 May
First two Chibok schoolgirls graduate from US colleges 10 years after mass abductions in Nigeria
First two Chibok schoolgirls graduate from US colleges 10 years after mass abductions in Nigeria – Two survivors of the 2014 abduction of 276 girls by Boko Haram terrorists in Chibok, Nigeria, graduate from US colleges after receiving scholarships from the Murtala Muhammed Foundation (MMF) and Victims Support Fund – MMF calls for more support for youths affected by conflict and in urgent need of education and empowerment Lagos – 20 May 2024- The Murtala Muhammed Foundation (MMF) and Victims Support Fund (VSF) today announced the graduation of Patience Bulus and Mercy Ali Paul, survivors of the 2014 Boko Haram mass abductions in Chibok, a town in Borno State, Nigeria. Patience graduated from Dickinson College, majoring in Gender Studies and Religion and Mercy graduated from Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA) with an Associate Degree in Social Science. Patience and Mercy’s journey to graduation was enabled by a partnership between MMF and VSF, to provide full scholarships and personal growth opportunities to the rescued Chibok girls, enabling them to pursue higher education at renowned universities in the United States. Patience was also inducted as an Honorable Member of the National Society of Leadership and Success at Dickinson College in 2021. 10 years after the Chibok abductions shocked the world, insecurity, and mass kidnapping in Nigeria are increasing, leaving a devastating impact on people across the country and posing a major threat to the economy. Recent kidnappings highlight the ongoing threat faced by young people in conflict zones. Young people affected by conflict need urgent support, including access to education, security, and restoration of livelihoods. Strengthening Nigeria’s education system is crucial for empowering, economic progress and inclusive growth. With over 200 million people, Nigeria has one of the highest numbers of out-of-school children globally. The country’s literacy rate is c.60%, with significant disparities between urban and rural areas. There is a critical need for Nigeria’s tertiary education system to contribute to the country’s development trajectory – providing skills to young people with aspirations for a better quality of life. info@mmfng.org | www.mmfglobal.org Speaking at Patience’s graduation in Carlisle Pennsylvania, USA, Aisha Muhammed-Oyebode, Founder and CEO of Murtala Muhammed Foundation, said: “The abduction of 276 schoolgirls 10 years ago from their boarding school signaled the urgency of action to secure education for girls in Nigeria. As an organisation with a vision to advance positive education and social outcomes for women, we celebrate Patience and Mercy’s achievements today as a powerful example of resilience and we celebrate their determination not to be defined by the past but focused on the future. Many more girls in Chibok and other conflict-affected communities deserve this opportunity so today we are calling for immediate action at the local and global levels to enable access to quality education and build self-reliance in conflict-affected communities.” With 91 girls in captivity, many of the Chibok schoolgirls have returned as mothers. Rape, coercion, and extremism are often weapons of war; the need to protect women and girls must not be ignored. Sexual slavery/reproductive health are at heightened risk in conflict zones. Sharing their inspirational journey to completing their education, Mercy Ali Paul said: “Graduating feels like a dream I never thought would come true. Ten years ago, I was just hoping to survive the nightmare of abduction. Each moment I spent with Boko Haram was filled with fear and uncertainty, but my faith kept me strong. I finally escaped, and I became determined after that to reclaim my life. I knew education was the key to rebuilding my future, and now with this diploma, I feel empowered. My journey has been challenging, but the support from my family, friends, and sponsoring organisations from Nigeria made it possible. I hope my story inspires other girls in Nigeria and around the world to never give up, no matter how dark their circumstances may seem.” Patience Bulus said: “Walking across this stage today is more than just receiving a diploma; it’s a testament to resilience and hope. Ten years ago, Boko Haram tried to take away our futures, but they couldn’t take away our dreams. Escaping their grip was just the first step. Adapting to life in the U.S. and catching up with my education was incredibly challenging, but every struggle was worth it. Today, that I graduate with a degree from a prestigious college, is not just for myself, but for the countless girls who are yet to make it out. This achievement is dedicated to them and to the power of community support. The encouragement and resources provided by sponsors in Nigeria and others here in the U.S. made this possible. I am excited to use my education to advocate for girls’ rights and education worldwide. Today is proof that with perseverance and support, we can overcome even the most harrowing experiences.” The initiative also gave the girls psychosocial support, immigration support, and essential aid and resources for their academic development. About Aisha Muhammed-Oyebode Aisha Muhammed-Oyebode, Founder and CEO of Murtala Muhammed Foundation, is an entrepreneur, development specialist, international non-governmental organisation (NGO) expert, and human rights activist. Specializing in women and girls’ initiatives, Muhammed-Oyebode is a member of the Women’s Leadership Board of the Harvard Kennedy School’s Women and Public Policy Program, and of the Global Development Council of the Centre for International Development also the Harvard Kennedy School. She is an advisor and country expert to the University of Pennsylvania Law Global Women’s Leadership Project, and an advisor to the United States Institute of Peace (USIP), as a member of its senior working group on Northern Nigeria. Muhammed-Oyebode is a co-convener of the Bring Back Our Girls Movement, formed after the abduction of over 200 girls from their school premises in the Chibok village of Borno State, Nigeria. She holds a PhD in law from SOAS, University of London, an LLM in Public International Law from King’s College, University of London, and an MBA in Finance from Imperial College, University of
READ MORE24 May
May 2024 Newsletter
Welcome to the May Edition of the Murtala Muhammed Foundation Newsletter. As we turn the page on another month, we are filled with admiration and inspiration from the remarkable stories of transformation and resilience we have witnessed. Each story is a testament to the power of dedication and community support. This newsletter celebrates the achievements and milestones of our programs and the individuals who make them possible. With immense gratitude for your continuous support, we present to you a collection of narratives that highlight the spirit of hope, perseverance, and collective effort. Join us in reflecting on these uplifting tales and looking forward to the impactful journeys ahead! Talented Scholars Shine at Damare Primary School Our scholars at Damare Primary School recently demonstrated their exceptional talents and dedication by participating in the Universal Basic Education Yola South competition. Their hard work culminated in winning several trophies, bringing immense pride to the school. Such competitions provide valuable opportunities for students to showcase their abilities, foster teamwork, and build confidence. We are particularly proud of their performance in the sack race, where they secured an impressive second position. This remarkable achievement highlights their skills and underscores the importance of perseverance and teamwork. Congratulations to all the scholars for their outstanding performance! The Murtala Muhammed Foundation invites all Nigerians to contribute to our ongoing effort to document the events of the #EndSars protest in 2020. To contribute, fill out the form here and join us in bearing witness to history! You can also contact info@witnessingendsars.pub for more enquiries. We are excited to share the launch of the May 2024 Mentorship Program for Women in Business, where six mentees have been paired with their mentors, marking the beginning of their transformative journey. Congratulations to Seun Josephine Gideon, Joy Chinedum, Oyelowo Dayo, Naomi Samson, Tolulope Adedotun, and AmazingGrace Adamaigbo-Chinenyem. This program aims to empower women by providing them with guidance, support, and the tools they need to succeed in the business world. Through this mentorship, we hope to inspire confidence, foster professional growth, and build lasting connections. We look forward to celebrating their progress and achievements in the months to come. Exciting Partnership: 2024 CID Global Internship Program We are thrilled to announce that the Murtala Muhammed Foundation has been selected as a host organization for Harvard University’s prestigious Global Internship Program, facilitated by the Center for International Development (CID). This program offers undergraduate and graduate students at Harvard an incredible opportunity to engage in meaningful development work worldwide, expanding their horizons and gaining practical experience. Two talented Global Interns have been chosen to join us for an 8-week internship starting in June and August. On the 8th of May 2024, we held our first general meeting with the interns virtually. We are eager to welcome them and witness the innovative contributions they will bring to our development projects. This partnership exemplifies our commitment to fostering international collaboration and nurturing the next generation of development leaders. Fostering Connections for Sustainable Development The Christian Aid Africa private sector cocktail, part of the Christian Aid Week 2024 events, focused on the theme “Connecting the Private Sector and Charity Organizations for Sustainable Development.” Following the success of their donor cocktail in Abuja in 2023, this event aimed to strengthen collaborations between private sector entities and charity organizations to advance sustainable development initiatives. The Murtala Muhammed Foundation proudly attended this event, represented by key staff members. They engaged with key stakeholders, discussing potential partnerships and collaborations for sustainable development. This gathering was instrumental in fostering valuable connections and opening doors for future initiatives that will drive impactful and sustainable change. We are excited about the opportunities ahead and our role in promoting a sustainable future. STORY OF THE MONTH Celebrating Resilience and Academic Achievement This month, we celebrate the graduation of Mercy Paul and Patience Bulus, who graduated on the 13th and 19th, respectively. These remarkable young women are former victims of the 2014 Chibok abduction by Boko Haram militants. Despite the horrific experience, they have shown extraordinary resilience and hope, overcoming trauma and excelling academically. The Murtala Muhammed Foundation applauds their achievements and extends heartfelt gratitude to the Victim Support Fund for their unwavering partnership in sponsoring the girls. Their story is a powerful reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of overcoming challenges. We are inspired by their journey and committed to supporting others in similar circumstances. Dear readers, thank you for staying on this journey with us to uncover the inspiring narratives behind the tangible impact of our programs. Stay tuned for fascinating updates coming your way!
READ MORE20 May
2017 Women Power Lunch
Home Events 2017 – Women’s Power Lunch 2017 Women’s Power Lunch: A Gathering of Icons for Change The 2017 Murtala Muhammed Foundation Women’s Power Lunch marked a momentous occasion – the third edition of this impactful event. This year’s gathering lived up to its reputation, fostering a vibrant space for women leaders and changemakers to connect, inspire, and strategise for a more equitable future. The theme of solidarity continued to resonate, bringing together an “inspiring speech to a cross generational audience of women.” Participants hailed from diverse backgrounds, encompassing the private sector, government, civil society, media, and the arts. This rich tapestry of experiences ensured a dynamic exchange of ideas and perspectives. The 2017 event boasted a distinguished guest list, featuring two iconic figures as keynote speakers: Her Excellency, Mrs. Graça Machel Mandela DBE: The former first lady of both South Africa and Mozambique, Mrs. Machel Mandela is a global advocate for human rights, women’s empowerment, and children’s education. Her presence at the Women’s Power Lunch undoubtedly served as a source of immense inspiration. Her Excellency, Dr. Hilda Joyce Banda: Dr. Banda, the former President of Malawi, returned to the Women’s Power Lunch stage, building upon her powerful message from the previous year. Her continued participation exemplifies the significance of this platform for sustained dialogue and action. Leading the Charge: The event was further elevated by the presence of H.E, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, GCFR, Former President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, who served as the chairman. President Obasanjo’s commitment to fostering gender equality added another layer of weight and importance to the proceedings. A Catalyst for Change: The 2017 Women’s Power Lunch served as a powerful catalyst for change. By bringing together established leaders like Mrs. Machel Mandela and Dr. Banda with a diverse audience of emerging changemakers, the event fostered a spirit of collaboration and ignited a renewed commitment to dismantling barriers and advancing gender equality. The lasting impact of this gathering continues to resonate across Africa and beyond. Recent Posts 2017 Women Power Lunch May 20, 2024 2016 Women Power Lunch May 20, 2024 January 2024 Newsletter May 13, 2024 February 2024 Newsletter May 13, 2024 March 2024 Newsletter May 13, 2024
READ MORE20 May
2016 Women Power Lunch
Home Events 2016 – Women’s Power Lunch 2016 Women’s Power Lunch: A Call for Solidarity and Inclusion The 2016 Murtala Muhammed Foundation Women’s Power Lunch marked a significant milestone – the second edition of this transformative event. Held under the theme “Women in Solidarity: A New Paradigm for Inclusion,” the lunch brought together a powerful force for change: women leaders across Africa. This year’s keynote speaker was a true inspiration – Her Excellency Joyce Banda, the former president of Malawi. Dr. Banda’s multifaceted career as an entrepreneur, activist, politician, and philanthropist embodies the very essence of the Women’s Power Lunch. Her address served as a powerful call to action, urging women across the continent to recognise their immense potential as agents of change. Dr. Banda’s message resonated deeply: women are crucial contributors to economic, political, and social development. She challenged the audience to embrace their roles and actively participate in shaping the future. Furthermore, she emphasised the importance of women seeking and pursuing leadership positions in government. The 2016 Women’s Power Lunch reinforced the Murtala Muhammed Foundation’s core belief: when women unite, their collective power becomes an unstoppable force for positive change. By fostering solidarity and collaboration, women can break down barriers and dismantle the walls of gender inequality. The 2016 event serves as a lasting testament to the transformative power of the Women’s Power Lunch. It is a powerful reminder that women can build a more inclusive and equitable future for all through collective action and unwavering commitment. Recent Posts 2017 Women Power Lunch May 20, 2024 2016 Women Power Lunch May 20, 2024 January 2024 Newsletter May 13, 2024 February 2024 Newsletter May 13, 2024 March 2024 Newsletter May 13, 2024
READ MORE10 Apr
April 2024 Newsletter
Welcome to the April Edition of the Murtala Muhammed Foundation Newsletter. Reflecting on the past month fills us with a sense of pride and fulfillment as we recount the incredible moments of transformation and resilience that have unfolded. As we embark on this journey together, we invite you to join us in celebrating the remarkable achievements and milestones reached through our collective efforts. With gratitude for your unwavering support, we present to you a collection of inspiring narratives that embody the spirit of hope and perseverance. So, dive in and enjoy the uplifting tales that await within these pages!MMF COMMUNICATIONS UNIT Murtala Muhammed Foundation Empowers Young Scholars Through Mentorship The Murtala Muhammed Foundation recently visited Federal Government College Maiduguri to offer support and guidance to the Foundation’s Young Scholars there. The visit aimed to help these young students find their way towards successful careers. During the visit, the tertiary scholars, who are recipients of the Murtala Muhammed Foundation Scholarship Program, shared their own stories of facing challenges and overcoming them. They also took time to have personal chats with the young scholars, giving them advice on different career options, education paths, and how to develop useful skills. These conversations weren’t just informative; they also encouraged the students to get involved and ask questions, opening up new ideas about the many career paths available to them. Overall, the visit was a big success, leaving a lasting impression on everyone involved. It showed how dedicated the Murtala Muhammed Foundation is to helping young people become future leaders by giving them the support and motivation they need to succeed. CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS: EndSARS The Murtala Muhammed Foundation invites all Nigerians to contribute to our ongoing effort to document the events of the #EndSars protest in 2020. We are seeking your eyewitness accounts and reflections to feature in our upcoming book. Our goal is to create a comprehensive portrayal of the #EndSARS Movement, capturing its significance from various perspectives. Whether you participated in the protests, witnessed key moments, or have valuable insights to share, we want to hear from you. Your story is crucial in providing authentic evidence and firsthand experiences. We encourage submissions from across Nigeria, not just Lagos State where the movement began. The impact of #EndSARS reverberated nationwide, and we are committed to representing every viewpoint in our book. To contribute, fill out the form here and join us in bearing witness to history! You can also contact info@witnessingendsars.pub for more enquiries. Exciting News Alert: Mentorship Program for Women – May 2024 Intake We are thrilled to announce that our Mentorship Program for Women, May 2024 Intake, is gearing up for an incredible journey ahead! After weeks of dedicated preparation, our applicants have completed their pre-matching online training, and we couldn’t be prouder of their commitment and enthusiasm. We eagerly anticipate the next phase of our program, it’s time for our mentors and mentees to prepare for the exciting opportunity to be matched together. Mentoring is not just about imparting knowledge; it’s about fostering meaningful connections, sharing experiences, and guiding each other towards personal and professional growth. As we move forward, let’s embrace this opportunity to learn, grow, and forge lasting connections. Together, we will make a difference and empower each other to reach new heights of success. STORY OF THE MONTH MMF Reaffirms Commitment: 10 Years Since Chibok Girls’ Abduction In April, the Murtala Muhammed Foundation (MMF) marked a significant milestone in our ongoing dedication to the Bring-Back-Our Girls mission. It has been a decade since the tragic abduction of the Chibok Girls, and MMF stood strong, honouring their memory through a series of impactful events. Our virtual gathering, a centrepiece of these events, featured a poignant report launch and a thought-provoking panel discussion with eight experts. The report shed light on the heartbreaking realities faced by the Chibok community: out of the 276 abducted girls, only 21 have returned, accompanied by 34 children. This report unveiled the grim truth of the sexual violence and forced marriages endured by these girls during their captivity, with 91 still missing. The coverage of our report by esteemed outlets like Tribune, PMMews, Independent and more amplified the urgency of our cause, exposing the devastating toll on families. Tragically, 48 parents of victims have passed away since the abduction, while survivors continue to battle profound psychological trauma, impacting their education and employment prospects. In response to these challenges, MMF’s Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Aisha Muhammad-Oyebode, presented ten vital recommendations during the report’s unveiling. These proposals implore the Nigerian government and the international community to prioritize the well-being and reintegration of survivors. In addition to our virtual gathering, MMF organized poignant events around the world to honour the resilience of the Chibok Girls. From “Remembering the Chibok Girls: A Decade of Resilience” at Brooklyn College, New York, in partnership with BBOG, to a Fireside Chat and Photo Exhibition at The Africa Center, MMF ensured that their story resonated globally. As we reflect on this sombre anniversary, MMF reaffirms our unwavering commitment to securing the release of those still in captivity and supporting their successful reintegration into society. Together, we continue to stand in solidarity with the Chibok community, offering hope and advocacy for a brighter future. Download the Chibok Report here! Get ready to journey with us as we uncover the inspiring narratives behind the tangible impact of our programs. Stay tuned for fascinating updates coming your way!
READ MORE13 Mar
March 2024 Newsletter
Welcome to the March Edition of the Murtala Muhammed Foundation Newsletter. Looking back on March together fills us with joy as we share the most rewarding part of our work at MMF: tales of restored hope, lives changed, and glimpses of brightness amid adversity. Throughout March, we set ambitious goals and objectives, and we’re excited to announce that, thanks to your invaluable support, we have achieved and surpassed them. Dear readers, these pages contain news highlights and success stories that illustrate the impact of our mission. We are profoundly thankful for your tangible contribution to this remarkable transformation journey. So, immerse yourself and relish the uplifting stories within! MMF COMMUNICATIONS UNIT Celebrating International Women’s Day, the MMF Way March is a special month in the calendar devoted to celebrating women and advocating for gender equality. Specifically, March 8th marks International Women’s Day. Under the theme ‘Invest In Women: Accelerate Progress” ” the Murtala Muhammed Foundation, in its usual fashion, has aligned with the global community to celebrate women who, despite all odds, have continued to break the cycle. Underscoring our commitment to advancing gender equality and women’s empowerment, MMF’s commemoration of the 2024 International Women’s Day was characterised by holding meaningful conversations centred around the topic “Empowering Women for Global Relevance; The Why and How”. As we continue to make tremendous contributions towards highlighting how investing in women across all spheres of life will accelerate progress not just for women but for society as a whole, MMF called on its community to promote women’s inclusion and empowerment by joining the “inspire inclusion pose” trend across social media platforms. Highlighting the event was the shared picture and video of MMF partners, staff, and volunteers striking the “inspire inclusion” pose. MMF continues to actively ‘work the walk’ of women’s empowerment as we record more success with the Women in Business mentorship program. Representatives from partner organisations such as the Ladies Helpline Initiatives and the Biodun and Ibikunle Foundation have shared impact stories based on the program participants’ feedback. One mentee expanded her business into multiple outlets, all thanks to the mentorship program. Another mentee now confidently creates comprehensive business plans, they remarked. Others highlighted the exceptional nature of the mentor-mentee relationship, emphasising the timely and meaningful conversations that foster self-improvement. As we persist in enhancing the capabilities of women entrepreneurs in Nigeria, efforts are underway to devise strategies to enhance women’s access to funding in vulnerable and marginalised communities. Exciting News on MMF’s Women in Business Mentorship Program Women in Business Mentorship Program MMF is gearing up to welcome new mentees into the Women in Business Mentorship Program. Applications for the May 2024 batch closed on March 23rd, 2024, bringing us one step closer to selecting deserving women for a transformative 12-month mentorship journey. Designed to uplift women in business and enhance their economic independence, this program offers personalized mentorship to equip entrepreneurs with the skills and knowledge needed for success. Women have achieved remarkable milestones through the program, from supporting their families to reclaiming financial autonomy. With your support, we can continue to empower women as they break free from economic constraints and build brighter futures. Let’s pave the way for women and girls to unleash their full potential together. MMF Scholarships for Young Women in STEM African Women in STEM Scholarship In our ongoing dedication to addressing the challenges of marginalised children in Nigeria and emphasising education as a national priority, particularly in marginalised areas, the Murtala Muhammed Foundation has partnered with the African Science Academy to offer scholarships to young Africans. Our focus is especially on encouraging women to pursue studies in STEM fields. After receiving many applications from highly qualified students, we have closed the application process. Our team rigorously reviews each submission to identify the most deserving candidates. While our primary goal is to support women in STEM, we are committed to selecting the most exceptional individuals regardless of gender. Your support has been crucial in our mission to advocate for improved educational opportunities, and we deeply appreciate your continued involvement in this important journey. Honouring Our Chairman: Former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s 87th Birthday. Celebrating Olusegun Obasanjo at 87 At MMF, birthdays hold more significance; they’re cherished moments, especially when honouring someone as remarkable as former President Olusegun Obasanjo. On March 5th, we celebrated our esteemed Chairman’s 87th birthday, recognising his unwavering dedication to fostering national peace, unity, and development. Having assumed the role of Chief of Staff, the second-in-command to General Murtala Muhammed, following the coup of July 29, 1975, Obasanjo ascended to the position of Head of State and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces after the assassination of our Patron, General Muhammed, in a coup on February 13, 1976. Unlike prevailing trends across Africa at the time, he remained steadfast in upholding the regime’s goals and objectives. During his three-year tenure as Head of State, Obasanjo wholeheartedly committed Nigeria to the anti-apartheid crusade, providing diplomatic, political, and military support to freedom movements in southern Africa, aligning with Nigeria’s independent foreign policy rooted in Africanization and non-alignment. Obasanjo’s steadfast commitment to addressing poverty, social instability, and marginalisation has profoundly impacted our nation’s progress. The Murtala Muhammed Foundation proudly stands alongside him, reaffirming our commitment to his noble ideals and expressing heartfelt gratitude for his tireless leadership as our Chairman. Nurturing Success: MMF Scholars Shine Bright at FGC Maiduguri During the Program Officer’s visit to the Federal Government College (FGC) Maiduguri, MMF vividly demonstrated its commitment to fostering academic excellence and personal development. Interacting directly with our scholars, Mr Maina, MMF’s Program Officer, addressed academic obstacles head-on, offering tailored mentorship to guide them toward success. By providing personalised attention and targeted support, particularly in challenging subjects like mathematics and physics, scholars felt empowered and motivated to overcome hurdles. One scholar expressed, “The sessions with Mr. Maina gave me the confidence to tackle difficult subjects and strive for excellence.” Furthermore, MMF scholars’ cultural richness and talent shone brightly at the 2024 Commonwealth Cultural Day
READ MORE