Born on December 14, 1974, Muhammed attended GHANASCO in Tamale and obtained a Teacher Certificate A from Tamale College of Education (formerly TATCO). He also earned master’s degrees in Development Planning from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology and in International Relations and Diplomacy from the University of Ghana.

In 2009, following the NDC's victory in the 2008 elections, Murtala Muhammed became the deputy national coordinator of the National Youth Employment Programme (NYEP) under President John Evans Atta Mills. He served in this role until his election as Member of Parliament for the Nanton Constituency in the 2012 Elections.

Muhammed served as Deputy Minister for Information and Media Relations and later as Deputy Minister of Trade and Industry in the John Mahama government from 2013 to 2017.

Muhammed is a devout Muslim, married, and a father of three. His personal and professional life is characterized by his dedication to family, faith, and the service of his constituents.

Tragically, Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed passed away in a plane crash on 6th August 2025 alongside the Minister of Defence, Edward Omane Boamah, and six other crew members. His loss is deeply mourned across Ghana. As a leader devoted to the nation’s progress, his legacy in politics and development continues to inspire.