The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has eulogised the late Dr Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, describing him as a patriotic lawmaker and devoted public servant whose life embodied excellence, humility, integrity and selfless service.

Buah, who is acting as Minister for Environment, Science and Technology following the death of Dr Murtala Muhammed, made the remarks during a prayer session held last Friday in memory of the late minister.

The event was attended by Ministers of State, the National Chief Imam, Dr Osman Nuhu Sharubutu, and other dignitaries.

Buah praised the late minister for his distinguished career and sterling contribution to public service, noting that he demonstrated exceptional intellect, patriotism and a strong desire to improve the lives of ordinary Ghanaians.

Dr Murtala Muhammed served as Deputy Minister for Information and Media Relations, Deputy Minister for Trade and Industry, Member of Parliament for Nanton and later Tamale Central.

He subsequently served as Minister for Environment, Science and Technology, where Mr Buah said he provided visionary leadership at a time when Ghana faced significant environmental and developmental challenges.

According to him, Dr Murtala Muhammed understood that environmental sustainability, scientific research and technological innovation were critical pillars for Ghana's national transformation.

He said during his vetting, the late minister spoke passionately about the urgent need to tackle plastic waste, curb pollution and reverse environmental degradation.

“Genesis 2:15 and Quran 2:30 both emphasise our duty to safeguard the environment. It is not just a policy matter but a collective responsibility,” Mr Buah quoted the late minister as saying.

Buah said the statement captured the essence of Dr Murtala Muhammed’s mission in office.

“In that single statement, he captured the very soul of his mission. He understood that environmental stewardship is not political; it is spiritual. It is not optional; it is essential. And he lived that truth every day of his brief but luminous tenure,” he said.

Six-month legacy

Mr Buah said that despite serving for only six months, Dr Murtala Muhammed laid a strong foundation that continues to guide the Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology.

He highlighted several initiatives and achievements associated with the late minister’s tenure, including the repeal of L.I. 2462, which previously permitted mining in Ghana’s forest reserves.

He also mentioned Ghana’s hosting of the African Research Initiative for Scientific Excellence (ARISE) High-Level Meeting in 2025, which culminated in the Accra Declaration.

Other initiatives included the launch of the biannual Environment, Science and Technology (BEST) Forum as a platform for building strategic partnerships for innovation and research commercialisation.

Buah further cited the initial development of Ghana’s Blue Economy Strategy, aimed at transforming aquatic resources into engines of inclusive growth and environmental sustainability.

He also mentioned the launch of the “One Child, One Tree” campaign across the country to instil environmental responsibility among schoolchildren.

“On behalf of the Ministry, we dedicate the Ministry’s achievements to his enduring legacy. What has been accomplished at this Ministry was made possible by the foundation he laid during his brief but impactful tenure,” Mr Buah said.

He urged Ghanaians to honour the late minister’s memory by upholding the values he championed.

“As we bid him farewell today, let us honour his memory not merely with words, but by committing ourselves to the ideals he cherished: honest leadership, environmental responsibility, scientific progress, and steadfast service to our country,” he said.

Buah extended his condolences to the bereaved family and all those mourning the late minister.

“May Allah, in His infinite mercy, forgive his shortcomings, accept his good deeds and admit him into Al-Jannatul Firdaus. May He also grant comfort and peace to his family and to our nation,” he said.

“Dr Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed: You served your nation with distinction. Your legacy will endure, your memory will remain cherished, and your example will continue to inspire generations.

“May your gentle soul continue to rest in perfect peace. Ameen,” he concluded.