Obasanjo Blows Hot: During the Murtala’s regime, we gave Angola $20 Million which was N12 Million, Nigerian Airways helped them have access to the outside world. We did the same for South Africa

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has reflected on Nigeria’s financial and diplomatic support for Angola and South Africa during General Murtala Muhammed’s regime between 1975 and 1976.

In remarks quoted by the X account @NigeriaStories, Obasanjo recalled that Nigeria provided a $20 million grant—equivalent to about N12 million at the time—to support liberation efforts in Angola, alongside other strategic assistance.

Speaking about that period, Obasanjo highlighted Nigeria’s decisive backing of the Popular Movement for the Liberation of Angola (MPLA) during Angola’s struggle for independence.

He noted that beyond financial aid, Nigerian Airways played a key role by offering external access and logistical support, helping connect the liberation movement to the wider international community at a critical moment.

The support formed part of Nigeria’s assertive pan-African foreign policy under General Murtala Muhammed. Following Angola’s declaration of independence in 1975, Nigeria was among the first African countries to recognize the MPLA-led government, despite international pressure and Cold War tensions.

The move signaled Nigeria’s readiness to take bold diplomatic positions in support of African self-determination.

Obasanjo, who later became head of state after Murtala Muhammed’s assassination in 1976, emphasized that Nigeria saw the liberation of African nations from colonial and minority rule as a moral and strategic obligation. In addition to Angola, Nigeria was deeply involved in anti-apartheid efforts in South Africa, providing political backing and material support to movements opposed to white minority rule.

Direct quotes attributed to Obasanjo in the post recall the financial commitment and the broader vision behind it, underscoring how Nigeria prioritized continental solidarity even at significant economic cost.

Nigeria’s activism during the 1970s marked a defining chapter in its foreign policy. The country used its oil wealth and diplomatic influence to champion African liberation movements, often confronting Western powers that held different geopolitical interests.

This period cemented Nigeria’s reputation as a leading voice in African affairs.

In recent years, Angola has formally honored General Murtala Muhammed for his role in supporting its independence struggle, reflecting enduring recognition of Nigeria’s contributions.

Such gestures have renewed public discussion about Nigeria’s historical leadership role on the continent….See More