The Federal Government has declared Tuesday, July 15, 2025, a public holiday to honour the memory of late former President Muhammadu Buhari, who died on Sunday, July 13, in London at the age of 82. The announcement has been met with mixed emotions across the country as Nigerians reflect on the legacy of the former leader.
The announcement was made by the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, following the approval of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The decision underscores the deep respect the current administration has for Buhari’s contributions to national development and his role in shaping Nigeria’s political history.
The declaration is part of the ongoing seven-day national mourning period ordered by the President in tribute to Buhari’s life and service. During this period, official government functions are expected to be held in a solemn atmosphere, and all public events are advised to observe moments of silence in honour of the late president.
In a statement issued by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, Magdalene Ajani, the Minister described Buhari as a leader who served Nigeria with “dedication and integrity” throughout his time in public office. The statement highlighted the critical roles Buhari played in advancing national security, economic reforms, and anti-corruption efforts.
“The holiday is a mark of respect for the late President’s service to the nation, his contributions to Nigeria’s democratic journey, and his enduring legacy in governance and national development. Buhari was a man who stood firm on his principles and worked tirelessly to promote good governance,” the statement emphasized.
“President Muhammadu Buhari served Nigeria with dedication, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to the unity and progress of our great nation,” the statement partly read. It also noted that Buhari remained a figure of simplicity and modesty despite holding the nation’s highest office twice, first as a military head of state and later as a civilian president.
The Federal Government said the day would serve as an opportunity for Nigerians to reflect on Buhari’s leadership and his contributions to democracy, national unity, and development. Citizens have been encouraged to take part in community prayers and memorial events across states to honour his memory and contributions to nation-building.
“This public holiday provides an opportunity for all Nigerians to reflect on his life, leadership, and the values he upheld,” Tunji-Ojo added. The Minister called on all religious and community leaders to lead special sessions dedicated to promoting peace and national solidarity, values that Buhari consistently championed throughout his lifetime.
The minister further encouraged citizens to use the day to promote peace, patriotism, and national unity in line with Buhari’s vision for the country. He stressed that Nigerians should focus on building bridges rather than divisions and continue to support democratic institutions and the rule of law.
He also reaffirmed that national flags across the country will continue to fly at half-mast for the entire seven-day mourning period, which began on Sunday. Government offices, embassies, and public institutions have been instructed to comply fully with this directive as a sign of respect and national solidarity.
President Buhari, who served as Nigeria’s Head of State from 1984 to 1985 and later as a democratically elected President from 2015 to 2023, will be laid to rest in his hometown of Daura, Katsina State. His burial ceremony is expected to attract dignitaries from within Nigeria and across the globe, including world leaders and former colleagues.
The Federal Government extended its condolences to the Buhari family, the people of Katsina State, and the entire nation. The statement concluded by urging Nigerians to stand together in this moment of grief, support the bereaved family, and work towards preserving the values of honesty, service, and discipline that Buhari embodied during his lifetime.