General Murtala Muhammed
Took over in a bloodless coup but was assassinated in a failed coup attempt the following year.
About Nigeria's Heads of State
The President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria is both head of state and head of government, elected for a renewable four-year term. The President commands the armed forces, appoints ministers with Senate confirmation, signs bills into law and represents Nigeria in international affairs. Under the 1999 Constitution, executive power is vested in the President, exercised in accordance with the Constitution and laws made by the National Assembly.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did General Murtala Muhammed serve as Head of State of Nigeria?
General Murtala Muhammed served as Nigeria's head of government from July 1975 to February 1976.
When was General Murtala Muhammed born?
General Murtala Muhammed was born on 8 November 1938, which would make he about 87 years old today.
What state is General Murtala Muhammed from?
General Murtala Muhammed hails from Kano State in Nigeria's North-West geopolitical zone.
What religion did General Murtala Muhammed practise?
General Murtala Muhammed is widely identified as a Muslim. Religion has often factored into Nigeria's leadership representation, though it is not a constitutional requirement for office.
What does the President of Nigeria do?
The President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria is both head of state and head of government. The President commands the armed forces, appoints ministers with Senate confirmation, signs bills into law, sets national policy and represents Nigeria internationally. Under the 1999 Constitution, the President serves a renewable four-year term.
Other Nigerian Presidents & Heads of State
- Alhaji Shehu Shagari
- Alhaji Umaru Musa Yar’Adua
- Bola Ahmed Tinubu
- Chief Ernest Shonekan
- Chief Olusegun Obasanjo
- Dr. Goodluck Jonathan
- General Abdulsalami Abubakar
- General Ibrahim Babangida
- General Olusegun Obasanjo
- General Sani Abacha
- General Yakubu Gowon
- Major General Johnson Aguiyi-Ironsi
- Major General Muhammadu Buhari
- Muhammadu Buhari
- Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa
Government of Kano State
- Governor
- Abba Kabir Yusuf
- House of Reps
- 24 members — listed on the Kano State page