Hon. Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, was respected across Ghanaian politics for his discipline, competence and a deep commitment to public service. Born on 14 December 1974 in Tamale, he began his education at St. Peter’s Primary School (popularly known as Kulikuli School) and continued at Ghana Senior High School, GHANASCO.
He trained as a professional teacher, earning a Teacher’s Certificate A from the Tamale College of Education, before pursuing higher academic achievement. He held a Master’s degree in Development Planning from the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, a Master’s in International Relations and Diplomacy from the University of Ghana, and a PhD in Political Science, also from the University of Ghana.
His leadership journey started early in student activism. In 1999, he served as General Secretary of the All-African Students Union, advocating for youth empowerment and education reforms. He later rose to national policymaking when he was appointed Deputy National Coordinator of the National Youth Employment Programme in 2009, playing a key role in expanding job opportunities for young people.
Dr. Murtala Muhammed entered Parliament in 2012 as the MP for Nanton. Though he lost the seat in 2016, he returned to Parliament in 2020 after winning the Tamale Central Constituency. He earned a renewed mandate from his constituents in 2024.
He also served in various government roles under former President John Dramani Mahama, first as Deputy Minister for Information and Media Relations and later as Deputy Minister for Trade and Industry. In February 2025 he was appointed substantive Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, where he led efforts aimed at improving environmental governance and climate resilience.
His work as MP for Tamale Central earned him widespread respect. He championed improvements in education, including school renovation projects, free lessons for students, the provision of learning materials, a tertiary support fund and the introduction of a mobile library.
In healthcare, he supported medical students through scholarships, supplied vital medical equipment, and facilitated the construction of three health facilities. He also prioritised infrastructure and jobs, helping develop inner-city roads and drilling mechanised boreholes while securing employment opportunities for young people.
He promoted women’s economic empowerment through financial support schemes and facilitated the construction of an artificial turf pitch to support sports development and youth recreation.
Colleagues describe him as a passionate advocate for fairness, a disciplined organiser and a fearless voice for the marginalised. His dedication to the people he served was visible in every sector he touched.
Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed leaves behind a legacy of devoted leadership, a record of concrete improvements in community life and a reputation for integrity in public office. He is mourned by his family, constituents, colleagues and a grateful nation.
