The Barewa Old Boys Association (BOBA) has called for a revival of Nigeria’s founding values of discipline, integrity, and courage in leadership, drawing inspiration from the enduring legacy of the late Head of State, Murtala Muhammed.
The call was made at the launch of the book “Murtala Muhammed: Unveiling the Ancestral Roots of a Nigerian General” held in Kano.
Public Relations Officer of the
Association, Stephen Ogboli gave the indication in a statement on Thursday.
The statement quoted the President of BOBA representdd at the event by Alhaji Farouk Umar (FCA, FCCA, Sarkin Shanun Kano) to have described the occasion as both “an institutional privilege and a national obligation to celebrate a life of patriotic service.”
“Fifty years after his passing, Murtala’s name still carries the electricity of urgency, courage, and patriotism,” he said. “Before he commanded troops, he commanded respect among his peers. Before he led the nation, he learned to lead himself.”
BOBA traced the late General’s leadership foundation to his formative years at Barewa College, where he was admitted in 1952. The College, renowned for its strict discipline and leadership culture, served as his early training ground in responsibility, courage, and excellence—qualities that later defined his national service.
The Association highlighted three enduring lessons from Murtala’s life: that leadership begins early; discipline is the architecture of greatness; and courage is first a moral decision before it becomes a public act.
The President recalled Murtala’s famous declarations—“Nigeria will not tolerate indiscipline” and “Africa has come of age”—noting that these convictions were forged long before he assumed national leadership.
“The story of Murtala Muhammed is not only a military story; it is an educational story,” he added. “It proves that institutions matter and that the character we build in youth determines the destiny we reach in adulthood.”
BOBA reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening schools and mentoring young Nigerians in values-based leadership, describing such efforts as “the truest memorial to the Murtala Muhammed legacy.”
The Association further urged public officials and institutions to restore discipline and urgency in national service, emphasizing that Murtala’s brief tenure remains a benchmark for courageous and people-centred governance.
The solemn event attracted scholars, government officials, military representatives, and members of the Barewa community.
“May Allah grant General Murtala Ramat Muhammed eternal rest in Jannatul Firdaus,” the statement concluded.
Barewa Old Boys honour Murtala, urge disciplined leadership
