The Ministry of Environment, Science, Technology, and Innovation has paid tribute to the late Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, describing him as a dedicated leader whose punctuality, work ethic, and commitment to public service left an indelible mark on the nation.
At the memorial and reflection night on Saturday, August 9, the Ministry’s Chief Director, Suweibah Adam, recalled how the late minister skillfully balanced his demanding responsibilities across the Ministry, Parliament, and the Presidency without showing signs of fatigue.
“Punctuality was his trademark,” she said. “He consistently reported to work between 6:30 am and 7:30 am, using the early hours to respond to official emails and critical correspondences before attending to the day’s engagements.”
She highlighted his hospitality, accommodation, and respect towards all Ministry stakeholders, noting that his multitasking ability earned admiration from colleagues and partners alike.
“He inspired the youth on public sector management, and the impact of his leadership will continue to be felt through the numerous national programmes and initiatives he helped shape,” she added.
Murtala Muhammed was among eight individuals who tragically lost their lives in a military helicopter crash in the Adansi Akrofuom District of the Ashanti Region on Wednesday, August 6. Other victims included the Minister for Defence, Dr. Edward Omane Boamah; Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator, Muniru Mohammed; former parliamentary candidate, Samuel Aboagye; and Vice Chairman of the NDC, Samuel Sarpong.
Also aboard the Ghana Armed Forces Z-9 helicopter were Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Manin Twum-Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah, who all perished. The officials were reportedly en route to Obuasi when the aircraft went off radar.
Samples of the victims’ remains have been sent to South Africa for DNA analysis as part of ongoing investigations.
The government has announced the burial rites for the two Muslim victims of the recent military helicopter crash, Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation and MP for Tamale Central, and Alhaji Limuna Muniru Mohammed, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator.
In line with Islamic tradition, Janazah prayers will be held on Sunday, August 10, at 2:00 p.m. at the Forecourt of the State House in Accra, followed by burial at 2:30 p.m. at the Military Cemetery, Accra
Meanwhile, an inter-denominational state funeral for all the victims is scheduled for Friday, August 15, 2025, at the Black Star Square.