THE ONLY NIGERIAN CURRENCY NOTE WITH A MILITARY MAN

THE ONLY NIGERIAN CURRENCY NOTE WITH A MILITARY MAN

THE ONLY NIGERIAN CURRENCY NOTE WITH A MILITARY MAN 🇳🇬

Did you know that the ₦20 note holds a unique place in Nigeria’s currency history?

It is the only Nigerian banknote to feature a military officer — General Murtala Ramat Muhammed (1938–1976).

While other Nigerian currency notes have featured politicians, statesmen, and other civilians, Murtala Muhammed remains the only military ruler whose portrait has appeared on a Nigerian banknote.

But there is another interesting part of his legacy.

On July 30, 1975, during his maiden broadcast to the nation after taking power, Murtala Muhammed opened with the now-famous words:

«“Fellow Nigerians…”»

Those two words would go on to become one of the most recognizable openings in Nigeria’s political and military broadcasts.

Nearly five decades later, “Fellow Nigerians” remains deeply embedded in Nigeria’s political vocabulary.

A man who ruled Nigeria for only about six months left behind a lasting phrase — and a portrait on the ₦20 note that millions of Nigerians still recognize today.

🇳🇬 GENERAL MURTALA RAMAT MUHAMMED — A SHORT RULE, BUT A LASTING LEGACY.