As part of events to celebrate its golden jubilee, President of the Republic of Angola, H.E. João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço, will on Thursday, 6 November, decorate three distinguished Nigerians in Luanda, the nation’s capital. The honourees are former Nigerian Head of State, General Murtala Ramat Muhammed (posthumously), former President Olusegun Obasanjo – both of whom will receive the Class of Honour Medal – and Professor Ibrahim Agboola Gambari, former Nigerian Minister of External Affairs and diplomat, who will be decorated with the Peace and Development Medal.
This was made known in a press release signed by Institutional Communication and Press Services on Tuesday in Abuja. “This recognition represents Angola’s deep appreciation for the selfless contributions of these Nigerian figures to the country’s struggle for political emancipation and lasting peace. Through this gesture, Angola expresses gratitude to the Nigerian people for their unwavering support and sacrifices during the nation’s fight for freedom and independence,” the release stated.
Representing the late Head of State, Aisha Muhammed‑Oyebode and Risqua Murtala Muhammed are already in Luanda for the award ceremony, while Chief Olusegun Obasanjo and Prof. Gambari are expected to arrive in the Angolan capital within hours.
In a related event, the Embassy of Angola in Nigeria will on Thursday, 6 November, host a commemorative function at Fraser Suites Hotel, Abuja, with the theme “Pieces of Angola’s History Told by Protagonists.” The round‑table will pay tribute to General Murtala Ramat Muhammed for his decisive role in supporting Angola’s independence. Dignitaries expected include members of the Nigerian government, the diplomatic corps, academics, business leaders, and retired generals of the Nigerian Armed Forces who contributed to Angola’s peace process. Ambassador José Bamóquina Zau will deliver a welcome address emphasizing hope and the strengthening of bilateral cooperation between both nations.
The release also noted that Nigeria provided vital political, financial and material support to Angola’s liberation struggle and was the first African nation to offer 20 scholarships to young Angolans, who later studied at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria; the University of Calabar; and the University of Jos.
