A Piece of History: EPA Deputy CEO Recalls Final Conversation with Nigeria’s Iconic Leader Murtala Mohammed

A Piece of History: EPA Deputy CEO Recalls Final Conversation with Nigeria's Iconic Leader Murtala Mohammed

On August 6, 2025, Ghana lost a national hero when Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, a former Environment Minister, died in a helicopter crash in the Adansi Akrofuom District of the Ashanti Region. The loss of this highly respected leader has left a lasting impact on those who knew him, particularly his close friend and colleague, Prof. Michael Ayamga, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA).

A Personal Loss

Prof. Ayamga has described the death of Dr. Murtala Mohammed as a deeply painful personal loss, recalling their final conversation shortly before the helicopter crash. He spoke during reflections on the first anniversary of the tragic event, reflecting on the impact of Dr. Murtala Mohammed's passing on his personal and professional life.

Prof. Ayamga said Dr. Murtala Mohammed was not only a colleague but also a close friend with whom he shared an open and honest relationship. Their friendship was built on trust, respect, and a shared passion for public service. Prof. Ayamga recalled that during their final conversation, they joked about traveling to France for food after the negotiations on a legally binding global agreement to address plastic pollution.

A Shared Vision for National Development

Dr. Murtala Mohammed's death represented more than just the loss of a colleague; it was the loss of a personal friendship and a shared vision for national development. Prof. Ayamga revealed that Dr. Murtala Mohammed had once encouraged him to work closely with him because he wanted someone around him who could tell him the truth. This testament to their close relationship highlights the impact of Dr. Murtala Mohammed's passing on his colleagues and friends.

Prof. Ayamga said that beyond the projects and policies associated with the late minister, his death also represented the loss of a personal friendship and a shared vision for national development. Dr. Murtala Mohammed's passion for tackling the global plastics challenge was evident in his commitment to the negotiations on a legally binding global agreement.

A Tribute to a Strong Woman

Prof. Ayamga paid tribute to Dr. Murtala Mohammed's wife, whom he described as a strong woman carrying the weight of the loss while raising their children. He acknowledged the pain that the family continues to endure, particularly during moments of remembrance and visits to the family. Prof. Ayamga's words serve as a testament to the enduring impact of Dr. Murtala Mohammed's legacy on his loved ones.

The loss of Dr. Murtala Mohammed has left a lasting impact on Ghana and the international community. His commitment to public service and his passion for addressing global challenges will continue to inspire others to follow in his footsteps. As the country reflects on the first anniversary of his passing, it is clear that Dr. Murtala Mohammed's legacy will live on through the lives of those he touched, including his close friend and colleague, Prof. Michael Ayamga.

Source: Joy Online