Punctuality was his trademark – MEST Chief Director reflects on Murtala Mohammed
The nation continues to grapple with the profound loss of Alhaji Dr Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, the late Minister for Environment, Science and Technology (MEST), following a tragic helicopter accident on August 6, 2025. In a heartfelt tribute, the Ministry’s Chief Director, Suweibah Adam, shared personal reflections on her late boss, highlighting the exceptional work ethic that defined his tenure in public service. The memorial and reflection night, held on Saturday, August 9, 2025, provided a platform to honour a leader whose dedication left a lasting impact on his colleagues and the country.
A Legacy Built on Discipline and Dedication
During the memorial, Suweibah Adam emphasized that punctuality was the cornerstone of Dr. Murtala Mohammed’s professional life. She described this discipline as his definitive “trademark,” a quality that set the tone for the entire Ministry. According to Adam, the late minister consistently arrived at the office between 6:30 a.m. and 7:30 a.m. each day. He utilized these quiet early hours to meticulously manage official emails and address critical correspondences, ensuring he was fully prepared before the day’s official engagements began. This unwavering commitment to starting the day early was a clear demonstration of his dedication to his role and his respect for the responsibilities entrusted to him.
Dr. Mohammed’s disciplined approach was more than just a personal habit; it was a standard of excellence that influenced the Ministry’s operations and culture. The crash of the Z9 military helicopter plunged Ghana into mourning, but memories of his leadership serve as an enduring inspiration. Suweibah Adam noted that his profound commitment to duty has left an indelible mark not only on the Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology but on the nation as a whole, cementing his legacy as a devoted and exemplary public servant.
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