7 Jun

2013 MMF Annual Lecture

Home News 2013 MMF Annual Lecture 2013 MMF Annual Lecture Theme: “Investing in Africa’s Future: Unlocking the Potential of our Next Generation of Leaders.”   Guest Speakers: Not specified.   Goal: To explore innovative strategies for developing a new generation of African leaders.   Partners and Sponsors: African Leadership Academy (ALA), South Africa.   Policy Dialogue: “Investing in Africa’s Future – Unlocking the Potential of our Next Generation of Leaders”   Leadership is critical for harnessing Africa’s potential and transforming the continent from one characterized by poverty, hunger, violence, crisis, malnutrition, and low education enrollment into a land of opportunity and achievement. The perception of Africa by some foreign nationals has often been negative, with references to it as a “black continent” not merely because of the skin color of its people but due to the persistent challenges it faces and the perceived inability to resolve them.   Event Overview: On October 9, 2013, the Murtala Muhammed Foundation, in partnership with the African Leadership Academy (ALA) in South Africa, organized a policy dialogue in Lagos, Nigeria. The event focused on leadership education and aimed at exploring innovative strategies for developing a new generation of leaders capable of steering Africa towards a brighter future. The dialogue was preceded by a pre-conference dinner on October 8, 2013, which hosted technocrats and experts from across Africa and Asia.   Theme and Focus: The event was themed “Investing in Africa’s Future: Unlocking the Potential of our Next Generation of Leaders.” The discussions centered on the critical need for transformational leadership to improve the well-being of Africans and drive development across the continent.   Key Discussions: Participants emphasized that to unlock the potential of Africa’s young population, it is essential to: – Improve the quality of foundational education, starting from primary school. – Incorporate leadership and value-based education into the school curriculum. – Increase investment in education at all levels.   Conclusion: The policy dialogue highlighted the urgent need for strategic investments in leadership education and the development of a value-based education system. By focusing on these areas, Africa can cultivate a new generation of leaders who are equipped to address the continent’s challenges and guide it towards sustainable development and prosperity. 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

7 Jun

2012 MMF Annual Lecture 

Home News 2012 MMF Annual Lecture  2012 MMF Annual Lecture  Theme: “Public Policy and Governance: 2011 and Be Beyond A Roadmap for Change and Nigeria’s Economic Development” Keynote Speaker: Mallam Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, CFR, Governor of the CBN Activities:   policy dialogue focusing on economic policies and issues. Goals:   Provide issue-based solutions and policy options for economic challenges. Address banking sector reforms and economic development.   Partners and Sponsors:   Not specified. Public Policy and Governance: 2011 and Beyond: A Roadmap for Change and Nigeria’s Economic Development The 2012 Murtala Muhammed Foundation’s policy dialogue concentrated on addressing Nigeria’s economic challenges. The event convened economic and financial experts to examine current issues and propose actionable solutions for economic advancement. Economic Context:   In 2012, Nigeria faced several economic difficulties, influenced by both local and international factors. The devastating floods that affected multiple states had a significant negative impact on the economy. Economic growth slowed to below seven percent, largely due to reduced activities in the non-oil sector, especially agriculture, wholesale, and retail trade. Additionally, the ongoing insurgency in northern Nigeria further hindered economic progress. Policy Dialogue Objectives: The Foundation aimed to contribute to economic solutions by hosting a policy dialogue that brought together experts and technocrats. The dialogue sought to mitigate the negative impacts on the economy and restore growth. The event was held on February 15, 2012, at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre, Abuja, with a preceding discussion dinner on February 14 at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel. Event Details:   The theme for the event was “Public Policy and Governance: 2011 and Beyond: A Roadmap for Change and Nigeria’s Economic Development.” It facilitated quality interactions between experts in banking, finance, the economy, and investment and stakeholders from these sectors. The aim was to enhance transparency, integrity, and accountability in government, fostering discussions that could lead to stronger economic development, increased foreign direct investment (FDI), higher employment rates, and improved living standards for Nigerians. Key Speakers:   –   Mr. Sanusi Lamido Sanusi:   Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria –   Mr. Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede:   Managing Director/Chief Executive of Access Bank Group –   Mr. Bismarck J. Rewane:   Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Financial Derivatives Company Limited Discussion Points:   The dialogue addressed critical economic issues including: – Banking sector reforms and their impact on the Nigerian economy. – Financial reforms and internal economic development. – The influence of the global economy on Nigeria. – Job creation and economic growth strategies. – Monetary policy and management. – Current monetary reforms. – International relations and FDI. – The correlation between government security management and FDI.   Outcomes:   The dialogue resulted in significant recommendations, including a commitment to addressing gender inequality in senior management positions within the banking sector. The discussions underscored the need for strategic solutions to bolster economic development, attract FDI, and improve overall economic conditions in Nigeria. The Murtala Muhammed Foundation’s 2012 policy dialogue highlighted the importance of expert-led discussions in shaping effective economic policies and fostering sustainable development in Nigeria. 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

7 Jun

2011 MMF Annual Lecture

Home News 2011 – MMF Annual Lecture 2011 MMF Annual Lecture Theme: Public Policy and Governance: 2011 and Beyond – Policy Dialogue with Presidential Candidates     Activities:   – Policy dialogue with presidential candidates covering key areas: economy, governance, infrastructure, human capital development, security, and international relations.     Goals:   – Discuss developmental challenges facing Nigeria. – Present and scrutinize policy positions of presidential candidates.   ### Public Policy and Governance: 2011 and Beyond – Policy Dialogue with Presidential Candidates   2011 was a significant election year for Nigeria, marking another pivotal moment in the nation’s democratic journey. As Nigeria prepared to elect new leaders, the Murtala Muhammed Foundation emphasized the importance of strengthening the electoral process and upholding democratic values. Historically, Nigeria’s electoral process dates back to the pre-independence era, with notable elections such as the 1920 Lagos Town Council election and the 1923 general elections.   Recognizing the crucial link between electoral processes and governance outcomes, the Foundation aimed to contribute to good governance by organizing a policy dialogue with presidential candidates. The 2011 election, initially scheduled for January, was postponed to April due to the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) request for more time to implement a new national electoral voter register and electronic voter registration software. This postponement highlighted the need for improved electoral infrastructure and processes.     Security Concerns:   The dialogue also addressed significant security challenges, including insurgent activities in the northeast, militancy in the Niger Delta, and widespread incidents of kidnapping and violence. These issues underscored the governance challenges facing Nigeria and their impact on national development.     Bad Governance as a Developmental Obstacle:   The Foundation acknowledged that bad governance is a major obstacle to development in Africa, including Nigeria. However, achieving good governance is possible with concerted efforts to improve institutions and governance processes. The emergence of leaders through a credible political process is essential for positive governance outcomes.     Policy Dialogue Objectives:   The policy dialogue brought together presidential candidates from various political parties to discuss developmental challenges and present their policy positions. The event aimed to promote issue-based campaigns and voting, fostering candidate-citizen engagement. Emphasizing the importance of peaceful elections, the dialogue encouraged candidates to commit to peaceful conduct irrespective of their political differences.     Event Details:   The 3-day policy dialogue, held in Lagos from March 8 to 9, featured presidential candidates from different political parties. The discussions covered critical areas such as the economy, governance, infrastructure, human capital development, security, and international relations. The event was moderated by Nn’emeka Maduegbuna, CEO/Chairman of C&F Porter Novelli, and featured a panel of esteemed experts, including:   – Dr. Reuben Abati (Guardian Newspaper, Consolex Legal Practitioners) – Dr. Chidi Odinkalu (Justice Initiative, Senior Legal Officer) – Dr. Jibrin Ibrahim (Centre for Democracy and Development, Director) – Mrs. Ayo Obe (Ogunsola Shonibare Legal Practitioners and Notaries Public, Partner) – Dr. Folarin Gbadebo-Smith (Centre for Public Policy Alternatives, Director) – Dr. Fatima Akilu (Leadership Newspaper, Chairman/Editorial Board) – Dr. Yusufu Pam (JY Pam and Company, Partner)     Pre-Event Activities:   – Arrival of out-of-town guests. – Pre-conference dinner. – Keynote speech by Dr. Abdul Raufu Mustapha.     Rapporteurs:   – Dr. Osita Agbu – Dr. Omobowale – Sharkdam Wapmuk     Conclusion:   The policy dialogue highlighted the importance of engaging citizens and candidates in meaningful discussions on national issues. Such dialogues and election debates contribute to good governance by promoting transparency, accountability, and informed voting. The Murtala Muhammed Foundation’s initiative provided a valuable platform for enhancing Nigeria’s democratic process and governance.   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

7 Jun

2010 MMF Annual Lecture

Home News 2010 – MMF Annual Lecture 2010 – MMF Annual Lecture Theme: Realizing the People’s Mandate   Activities: policy reform conference addressing electoral issues. Discussion on security concerns in the Niger Delta. examination of bombings in parts of Nigeria.   Goals: the challenges in achieving a functioning democracy in Africa. recommend steps for creating viable political systems.   Capacity Building and Policy Reform Conference: On November 9–10, 2010, the Murtala Muhammed Foundation organized a conference themed “Realizing the People’s Mandate.” This event was particularly significant as it took place in the lead-up to the 2011 general election in Nigeria, a period marked by numerous critical events and challenges.   Electoral Issues: In September 2010, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) requested a postponement of the elections initially scheduled for January 2011. INEC cited the need for more time to overhaul the national electoral voter register, leading to the elections being rescheduled for April 2011. This postponement, justified by the release of a new electronic voter registration system, faced some criticism.   Security Concerns: Security issues were also a focal point, particularly the ongoing militant activities in the Niger Delta and bombings in northern Nigeria. Notably, on October 1, 2010, dual car bombings in Abuja on Independence Day resulted in at least 12 deaths, highlighting the urgent need to address national security.   Citizen Participation: The conference emphasized the importance of active citizen participation in the electoral process. For development to thrive, citizens must be sensitized, educated, and included in governance processes.   Millennium Development Goals (MDGs): In 2010, the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) were adopted by 189 heads of state and government during the United Nations General Assembly session on September 25. This international development agenda set forth eight time-bound goals, 21 targets, and 60 indicators aimed at driving development globally.   Conference Overview: The 2-day conference organized by the Murtala Muhammed Foundation aimed to draw attention to the critical role of inclusive governance in sustainable development. Attendees included experts, professionals, and leaders who discussed the challenges of achieving a functioning democracy in Africa. Key areas of focus included electoral reform, security, citizen participation, and the adoption of the MDGs.   Key Discussions: Electoral Reform:    – Importance of maintaining an accurate and reliable voter register.    – Challenges and criticisms associated with postponing elections.    – Strategies to enhance the credibility and transparency of electoral processes.   Security:    – Addressing militant activities in the Niger Delta.    – Tackling terrorism and bombings in northern Nigeria.    – Developing comprehensive security strategies to protect citizens and maintain national stability.   Citizen Participation:    – Enhancing public awareness and involvement in governance.    – Ensuring that citizens are educated on their rights and responsibilities within the electoral process.    – Encouraging active engagement to foster a more responsive and accountable government.   Millennium Development Goals:    – Integrating the MDGs into national and regional development agendas.    – Focusing on people-centered development to ensure sustainable progress.    – Measuring progress through established targets and indicators.   Outcomes: The conference concluded with several key recommendations aimed at fostering a viable political system and building a stable government responsive to the needs of the country. The discussions underscored the importance of leadership, good governance, and active citizen participation in achieving sustainable development and a functioning democracy in Nigeria and across Africa.   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

7 Jun

2006 MMF Annual Lecture

Home News 2006 – MMF Annual Lecture 2006 MMF Annual Lecture Held annually on February 13th, the Murtala Muhammed Annual Memorial Lecture honors Nigeria’s 4th Head of State, General Murtala Muhammed. In 2006, the event marked the 30th anniversary of his assassination with a series of activities, including a memorial at General Muhammed’s Cenotaph at Obalende, Ikoyi, Lagos, Nigeria. The cenotaph was commissioned on February 13, 1992, by the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.   A special remembrance prayer session was also held in honor of the late General. The climax of the commemorative activities was the annual lecture, attracting experts from Nigeria, the UK, and the USA to discuss African integration and development under the theme “Africa: A New Agenda.”       Keynote Speaker:     Right Honorable Jack Straw, MP, Foreign Secretary to the UK and the Commonwealth.       Keynote Address Highlights:     Jack Straw’s address focused on Africa’s developmental challenges and the UK’s efforts to support African leaders in transforming the continent. Key points included:     Poverty Reduction and Development:     Emphasized the need to end poverty as a critical step toward sustainable development.     Governance:     Stressed the importance of good governance for development. Peace and Security: highlighted peace as fundamental for successful development.     Terrorism:     Addressed the damaging effects of terrorism on development. –     Migration:     Acknowledged the benefits of well-managed migration and the issues posed by illegal migration. Crime and Drugs: Discussed the impact of crime and drugs on Africa, urging closer cooperation between the UK, Europe, and Africa.     Energy Security:     Emphasized the importance of transparent management of oil revenues for long-term security. –     Environment:     Called for attention to climate change and environmental degradation, encouraging Africa to manage its forests.     Interfaith Partnership:     Highlighted the need for Christian and Muslim worlds to foster partnerships rather than enmity. Straw announced the lifting of a ban on young people under 30 traveling to the UK, which was implemented in April 2006. He also confirmed the UK’s commitment to returning assets stolen from Nigeria, in line with the UN Convention on Corruption, which the UK ratified on February 9, 2006.       2nd Annual Murtala Muhammed Memorial Conference       Theme: “Global Perspective on Disaster Management”     Date:     May 16–18, 2006 Venue: Transcorp Hotel, Abuja, Nigeria     Keynote Speaker:     Mr. J.A. Greene, former President, National Emergency Management Agency, USA (2000–2001)       Conference Goals:     Discuss disaster management strategies. improve preparedness. foster international collaboration.     Conference Highlights:     The conference aimed to address the inadequacies of Nigeria’s national disaster management regime and develop a holistic approach. It brought together stakeholders from various sectors, including airlines, regulatory bodies, emergency services, and civil society organizations. Key issues discussed included:   Section 1: Safety & Regulation -: Disaster Prevention Approach addressed the importance of transportation networks, safety standards, and data management for disaster prevention.   Section 2: Long-Term Disaster Planning & Prevention: A Risk Reduction Approach focused on integrating disaster planning in national policy, environmental vulnerability, and data management.   Section 3: Building Viable National Critical Response Systems: A Disaster Preparedness Approach discussed critical response agencies, coordination, funding, infrastructure, telecommunications, and volunteerism.       Session 4: Search and Rescue     highlighted the need for a trained national search and rescue unit, team management, and developing search and rescue infrastructure.       Session 5: Media & Information Management     explored the role of information management in emergency situations, the impact of media, and the need for public awareness on disaster management.       Session 6: After the Trauma: Rebuilding Lives, Restoration, and Closure     focused on psychological support for trauma survivors, rebuilding lives, and managing donor funding and relief efforts.       Special Guests:     Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, Chairman, Murtala Muhammed Foundation Prof. Richard Williams, University of Glamorgan Prof. David Alexander, Centre for Trauma Research, Aberdeen The conference concluded with recommendations to enhance Nigeria’s disaster management framework, emphasizing the need for coordinated efforts, improved infrastructure, and international collaboration. Recent Posts 2006 MMF Annual Lecture June 7, 2024 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

READ MORE

7 Jun

2007 MMF Annual Lecture

Home News 2007 – MMF Annual Lecture 2007 MMF Annual Lecture Theme: Exemplary Governance through Leadership” Date: February 19, 2007 Venue: :ECOWAS Secretariat, Abuja, Nigeria Keynote Speakers: Prof. Chukwuma Soludo: Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Mallam Nasir El-Rufai: Minister of the Federal Capital Territory Prof. Mrs. Dora Akunyili: Director General of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC)   Goals: Highlight contributions of successful professionals to nation-building. Identify areas for economic growth. recommend legal and judicial reforms to enhance governance. Advocate for the rule of law as a fundamental principle for public participation and good governance.   Event Overview: On February 19, 2007, the Murtala Muhammed Foundation (MMF) convened a diverse group of leaders and experts recognized for their excellence in governance and business. Held at the ECOWAS Secretariat in Abuja, Nigeria, the event aimed to spotlight visionary leadership that drives improvements in governance across both the public and private sectors. The lecture, themed “Exemplary Governance through Leadership,” focused on the values and visions of successful professionals and their contributions to national development.   Key Discussions: Leadership and Governance:    The speakers emphasized the importance of visionary leadership in transforming governance.     Prof. Chukwuma Soludo highlighted economic policies and financial reforms necessary for growth.    Mallam Nasir El-Rufai discussed urban development and governance strategies in the Federal Capital Territory.    Prof. Mrs. Dora Akunyili shared insights on regulatory reforms and the impact of NAFDAC’s work on public health and safety.   Economic Growth and Development:    Discussions centered around new agendas for national development.    Recommendations included leveraging economic reforms to fast-track growth and development.    Legal and judicial reforms were deemed critical for empowerment and poverty reduction.   Rule of Law:    – The speakers stressed that the rule of law must be upheld to stimulate public participation in governance.    – Experts called for the mainstreaming of the rule of law as a way of life in Nigeria, highlighting its importance in ensuring transparency and accountability.   Outcomes: – The lecture made significant contributions to the advocacy for policy reforms aimed at upholding the rule of law in Nigeria. – Recommendations were made to improve transformative leadership in the country, focusing on qualities demonstrated by the late General Murtala Muhammed. – The need for leaders in both the public and private sectors to work towards improving the quality of life for citizens was emphasized. – It was noted that poor leadership has hindered development in Africa, including Nigeria, despite the continent’s abundant human and natural resources.   Conclusion: The 2007 Murtala Muhammed Annual Memorial Lecture highlighted the crucial role of exemplary governance through effective leadership. By drawing on the legacies of leaders like General Murtala Muhammed, the event underscored the need for integrity, vision, and commitment to public service in driving national development and improving governance in Nigeria. 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

7 Jun

2005 MMF Annual Lecture

Home News 2005 – MMF Annual Lecture 2005 MMF Annual Lecture Theme:  Breaking Barriers and Limitations -Role of women in Development Keynote Speaker:  Mrs Grace Machel Mandela In 2005, the 9th Murtala Muhammed Memorial Lecture was themed “Breaking Barriers and Limitations – Role of Women in Development.” Mrs. Graca Machel Mandela, President of the Foundation for Community Development in Mozambique, delivered the keynote address. The event, held at the ECOWAS Secretariat in Abuja, Nigeria, drew a diverse audience including: – Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, GCFR, President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria – Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, GCON, Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria – Dr. Ibrahim Babangida, former Head of State, Federal Republic of Nigeria – Mohamed Ibn Chambas, President of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) – Alhaji Yusuf Maitama Sule, former Minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria In her address, Mrs. Graca Machel Mandela emphasized the necessity of empowering women to become equal partners in national development. She advocated for legislation to increase women’s participation in governmental roles across Africa. Other notable presenters included Senator Daisy Danjuma,  Mr. Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede (MD of Access Bank Plc), and  Alhaji Maitama Sule. **1st Murtala Muhammed Memorial Annual Conference** 2005 also marked the introduction of the Murtala Muhammed Memorial Conference, which ran concurrently with the lecture. This two-day conference focused on sub-themes such as women and the law, women empowerment, and gender equality, featuring papers on: – Gender Equity: The International Perspective – Mrs. Graca Machel Mandela – Women, The Constitution, and Applicable Law – Mrs. Mariam Uwais – Inheritance Laws and Women’s Property Rights – Mr. Yemi Candide-Johnson – Gender Integration in Policy Reforms – Dr. Goke Adegoroye The second session focused on Women Empowerment and Gender Equality, featuring discussions on: – Bridging the Gender Disparity in the Labour Market – Mr. Fola Adeola – Career Development in Women’s Education – Mr. Kunle Elebute – The Relevance of Women in Conflict Resolution in the Oil and Gas Industry – Chief Sena Anthony – Women in Politics: The Challenges – Senator Daisy Danjuma – Women in Banking: Indispensable Assets? – Mr. Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede – Financial Sector Adjustments: The Gender Implications – Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala The event also hosted an exclusive dinner in honour of Mrs. Graca Machel Mandela at the NICON Hilton Hotel, Abuja. The 2005 Murtala Muhammed Annual Memorial Lecture and Conference were significant in addressing gender disparities and empowering women across various sectors. President Obasanjo, chairing the event, declared a commitment to increasing women’s participation in government to 30%, a promise fulfilled during his second term. The Murtala Muhammed Annual Memorial Lecture continues to be a national platform that attracts key stakeholders and leaders, providing an enabling environment to shine light on public concerns with key recommendations from both local and international experts. 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

7 Jun

2003 MMF Annual Lecture

Home News 2003 – MMF Annual Lecture 2003 MMF Annual Lecture Theme : “NEPAD: A Blueprint for African Economic Development.”  Keynote Speaker: H.E. Sir Ketumile Masire, former President of Botswana, and H.E. Atiku Abubakar   Held annually on February 13th, the Murtala Muhammed Annual Memorial Lecture is a tribute to Nigeria’s 4th Head of State, General Murtala Muhammed, who was tragically assassinated on this date. This event not only honors his legacy but also provides a crucial platform for discussing key developmental issues with global leaders and distinguished statesmen.   The 2003 Annual Lecture, themed “NEPAD: A Blueprint for African Economic Development,” featured keynote addresses by H.E. Sir Ketumile Masire, former President of Botswana, and H.E. Atiku Abubakar, Vice President of Nigeria. The event focused on Africa’s development in the context of foreign policies, emphasizing sustainable economic growth and honouring Murtala Muhammed’s significant impact on Nigeria.   The lecture, hosted at the ECOWAS Secretariat in Abuja, Nigeria, on February 20, 2003, marked the eighth in the series and the first year the event was organized solely by the Murtala Muhammed Foundation, taking over from the Daily Times. It provided a platform for resourceful discourse on NEPAD, a home-grown development agenda aimed at eradicating poverty, promoting sustainable growth, fostering Africa’s integration into the world economy, and accelerating women’s empowerment.   Key discussions reiterated General Murtala Muhammed’s approach to Nigerian foreign policy and emphasized the importance of African solutions to African challenges. Sir Ketumile Masire highlighted the need for strong political systems independent of foreign aid to ensure sustainable socio-economic development. He echoed General Murtala’s pan-African vision, which had been articulated in his notable 1976 speech at the Organization of African Unity Summit in Addis Ababa.   The event attracted a distinguished audience, including President Olusegun Obasanjo, former Heads of State, Governors, Senate President, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Chief Justice of the Federation, Senators, Ambassadors, members of the Diplomatic Corps, and various traditional and religious leaders. The gathering united Nigerians across ethnic, religious, and geographical lines, reinforcing the event’s role in promoting Africa’s development and integration.   An additional highlight of the 2003 lecture was the launch of the book “Murtala Muhammed – The Architect of Modern Nigeria,” authored by Dr. Umah Ardo. This publication, celebrating the legacy of General Murtala Muhammed, was unveiled on the same day as the lecture, further commemorating his contributions to Nigeria and the African continent.   The Murtala Muhammed Annual Memorial Lecture continues to be a national platform, attracting key stakeholders and leaders and providing an enabling environment to address public concerns with recommendations from both local and international experts.   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

7 Jun

2002 MMF Annual Lecture

Home News 2002 – MMF Annual Lecture 2002 MMF Annual Lecture Theme: “The Challenges of Economic Integration for Africa”   Summary: 2002 was a momentous year for the Murtala Muhammed Foundation (MMF), marking its formal launch on February 13th. To commemorate this occasion and honour the legacy of General Murtala Muhammed, the MMF hosted its 8th Annual Memorial Lecture, themed “The Challenges of Economic Integration for Africa: A Roadmap for Sustainable Development.”   The lecture served as a platform for in-depth discussions on the critical issues hindering Africa’s economic progress. The keynote speaker, [Name of Keynote Speaker], shed light on the widening poverty gap, with Sub-Saharan Africa being home to the majority of the world’s least developed countries. The alarming increase in the number of Africans living in extreme poverty, coupled with the continent’s heavy reliance on low-value commodities, painted a stark picture of the challenges ahead. The lecture also explored other significant obstacles to economic integration, including low intra-African trade, inadequate infrastructure, political instability, and weak institutions. These issues were recognized as major roadblocks to harnessing Africa’s vast economic potential. Key Insights: The urgent need to address poverty and inequality in Africa. The importance of diversifying economies beyond reliance on raw materials. The necessity of strengthening infrastructure and trade networks within the continent. The role of good governance and stable institutions in fostering economic development. The call for collective action and international cooperation to support Africa’s economic integration. Foundation Launch: This year marked the official inauguration of the Murtala Muhammed Foundation, dedicated to honoring the late General’s legacy through programs and projects aimed at improving governance and leadership in Nigeria and Africa. 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

7 Jun

2000 MMF Annual Lecture

Home News 2000 – MMF Annual Lecture 2000 MMF Annual Lecture Theme: “The Amalgamation of 1914” Keynote Speaker: Major General Joseph Garba (Rtd.), former Director of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies Summary: Major General Garba delivered a thought-provoking analysis of the historical amalgamation of Nigeria in 1914. The lecture explored the motivations behind this colonial decision, its impact on Nigeria’s diverse ethnic groups and regions, and its lasting consequences for the nation’s development and political landscape. Key Insights: The complex legacy of colonialism in Nigeria. The challenges of forging a national identity in a diverse nation. The ongoing debates about the merits and drawbacks of the amalgamation. The importance of understanding history to address contemporary issues. 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
Skip to content