From Victor Osula, Abuja
The Federal Government has declared Tuesday, July 15, 2025, a public holiday in honour of the late former President Muhammadu Buhari, who died on Sunday in London at the age of 82.
The declaration was made by the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, following the approval of President Bola Tinubu.
In a statement issued on Monday and signed by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, Dr. Magdalene Ajani, the government described the holiday as a mark of respect for Buhari’s years of dedicated service to the nation.
Governor Dikko Umaru Radda of Katsina State and Chairman of the Northwest Governors Forum had earlier announced a similar holiday across the region.
According to the Minister, the former president’s legacy of integrity, patriotism, and leadership in governance warrants a collective moment of national reflection.
“President Muhammadu Buhari served Nigeria with dedication, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to the unity and progress of our great nation. This public holiday provides an opportunity for all Nigerians to reflect on his life, leadership, and the values he upheld,” the statement read.
He further urged citizens to use the day to honour Buhari’s memory by embracing peace, promoting patriotism, and working towards national cohesion, ideals the former president strongly believed in.
“As earlier announced, the national flags are to fly at half-mast for the seven-day mourning period from Sunday, July 13, 2025,” the Minister added.
The Federal Government also extended its deepest condolences to Buhari’s family, the government and people of Katsina State, and all Nigerians mourning the loss of the former leader.
Buhari passed away on Sunday at about 4:30 p.m. in a London hospital after a prolonged illness. His remains are scheduled to arrive in Katsina by noon on Tuesday, with interment set for 2:00 p.m. in his hometown, Daura.
