By Okpere Sharon
Final Tribute: Buhari’s Death Prompts National Holiday
The Federal Government has declared Tuesday, 15 July 2025, a public holiday to honour the memory of former President Muhammadu Buhari, who died on Sunday in a London hospital after a long battle with illness.
The announcement was made by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, on Monday, following the approval of President Bola Tinubu.
The public holiday is part of a seven-day national mourning period declared by the federal government to pay tribute to the late leader.
Buhari, who served as Nigeria’s president from 2015 to 2023, was widely known for his commitment to public service, anti-corruption efforts, and national unity.
According to the Minister, the holiday offers Nigerians a moment to reflect on the values Buhari stood for integrity, patriotism, and selfless service to the nation.
His remains are expected to arrive in Nigeria from the United Kingdom on Tuesday morning and will be buried in his hometown, Daura, in Katsina State, in accordance with Islamic rites.
As part of the mourning activities, national flags are to be flown at half-mast across the country from Sunday, 13 July, through the duration of the mourning period.
The government also encouraged citizens to honour the late president’s legacy by promoting peace, unity, and national development.
“The late President Muhammadu Buhari served Nigeria with sincerity and a firm belief in the progress and unity of the nation.
This holiday gives Nigerians the opportunity to reflect on his leadership and the direction he hoped for the country,” the minister stated.
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The federal government has extended its heartfelt condolences to the family of the late president, the people of Katsina State, and all Nigerians. It also prayed for the peaceful repose of his soul and called on citizens to remain united during this period of national loss.
