Buhari's national mourning holiday declared as Nigeria bids farewell

Buhari’s national mourning holiday set for Tuesday as Nigerians reflect on the late President’s legacy, unity efforts, and national service

Buhari’s national mourning holiday has been officially declared by the Federal Government to honour the life and service of Nigeria’s late former President, Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away on Sunday in a London hospital after a prolonged illness.

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The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, made the announcement in a statement issued on Monday in Abuja, noting that Tuesday, 15 July 2025, will be observed as a public holiday across the country.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu approved the declaration as part of a broader national mourning programme.

“In furtherance to the seven days of National Mourning declared by President Tinubu, the Federal Government has declared Tuesday, 15 July, as a public holiday in honour of the late former President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Muhammadu Buhari,” the statement read.

Buhari’s national mourning holiday is a day of reflection, according to the government. It is intended to allow Nigerians to remember the values and principles for which the late leader stood—chief among them integrity, discipline, and national unity.

“President Muhammadu Buhari served Nigeria with dedication, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to the unity and progress of our great nation,” the Minister said.

“This public holiday provides an opportunity for all Nigerians to reflect on his life, leadership, and the values he upheld.”

This public holiday provides an opportunity for all Nigerians to reflect on his life, leadership, and the values he upheld.

The late President will be buried on the same day in Daura, Katsina State, in accordance with Islamic rites. His body is expected to arrive in Nigeria early Tuesday morning before being taken to his hometown for a private interment.

Buhari, who led Nigeria as a military Head of State from 1983 to 1985 and later as a two-term civilian President from 2015 to 2023, was known for his tough stance against corruption, strong defence policies, and efforts to reposition Nigeria’s economy through diversification.

Buhari’s national mourning holiday is the first nationwide work-free day declared in honour of a democratically elected Nigerian president since the country’s return to civilian rule in 1999.

It underscores the national significance of his leadership and contributions to the country’s post-independence political trajectory.

In his statement, the Minister encouraged Nigerians to embrace the values of peace, patriotism, and national cohesion as a tribute to the ideals that guided Buhari throughout his life in public service.

The government also directed that all national flags should continue to fly at half-mast during the seven-day mourning period, which began on Sunday and will end on Saturday, 20 July.

As tributes pour in from across the country and beyond, Buhari is being remembered as a stoic leader who remained consistent in his beliefs, even when they attracted criticism.

Many Nigerians credit him with restoring order, strengthening Nigeria’s anti-corruption institutions, and giving voice to the country’s northern population on the national stage.

Several dignitaries, including sitting and former governors, ministers, traditional rulers, and business leaders, are expected to attend the burial in Daura. Security agencies have been placed on high alert to manage large crowds and protect key sites.

Also read: Tribute: Ambode mourns President Buhari, praising his solemnity, dignity

Buhari’s national mourning holiday serves as both a national farewell and a symbolic reminder of the enduring values that define service to the nation.