Abuja, Nigeria – July 14, 2025 – In a significant development following the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari, the Federal Government of Nigeria has officially declaredTuesday, July 15, 2025, as a public holiday. The declaration, made by the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, on behalf of the Federal Government, signifies a national day of mourning and respect for the departed leader.
The announcement comes as part of the seven-day national mourning period proclaimed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu following Buhari’s passing on Sunday, July 13, 2025, in London. The Ministry of Interior, through a statement signed by its Permanent Secretary, Dr. Magdalene Ajani, conveyed the government’s decision, emphasizing that the work-free day is a profound mark of honour for the former President’s extensive service to the nation.
“President Muhammadu Buhari served Nigeria with dedication, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to the unity and progress of our great nation,” the Minister stated. “This public holiday provides an opportunity for all Nigerians to reflect on his life, leadership, and the values he upheld.”
Nigerians are urged to utilize this day to honour the memory of the late President by fostering peace, patriotism, and national cohesion, aligning with his enduring vision for a prosperous and united Nigeria.
Burial Arrangements and National Protocol
The declaration of the public holiday coincides with the planned burial arrangements for the late former President. As announced by the Katsina State Governor, Dikko Radda, following consultations with the family and associates in London, Buhari’s remains are expected to arrive in Katsina State by noon tomorrow, Tuesday, July 15. The burial rites, in accordance with Islamic tradition, are scheduled to take place in his hometown of Daura by 2:00 PM on the same day.
National flags across the country will continue to fly at half-mast throughout the seven-day mourning period, which commenced on Sunday, July 13, 2025. This national gesture reflects the collective grief and respect for a leader who significantly influenced Nigeria’s modern history.
A Period of Reflection
The public holiday tomorrow provides a unique moment for Nigerians, both at home and abroad, to pause and reflect on the life and times of Muhammadu Buhari. From his initial tenure as a military head of state in the 1980s, marked by his “War Against Indiscipline,” to his historic democratic comeback in 2015, Buhari’s journey was characterized by a consistent focus on integrity, anti-corruption, and national security.
While his two terms as a democratically elected president presented a mixed bag of achievements and challenges – from unprecedented infrastructure development to economic headwinds and evolving security threats – his unwavering dedication to the nation’s unity remained a hallmark of his public life.
As the nation observes this special public holiday, all government offices, schools, and most businesses are expected to remain closed, allowing citizens to participate in the national mourning and reflection. The Federal Government has also extended its deepest condolences to the family of the late President, the people of Katsina State, and all Nigerians, praying for the peaceful repose of his soul.
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