The Federal Government has declared Tuesday, July 15, 2025, a public holiday to honour the memory of former President Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away on Saturday, July 13, in London at the age of 82.
The announcement was made by the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, on Monday, following the approval of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The public holiday is part of the national mourning period declared by the presidency to commemorate the life and legacy of the late Nigerian leader.
President Tinubu had earlier declared seven days of national mourning, directing all government institutions and embassies to fly flags at half-mast from July 13 to 19, 2025.
“President Muhammadu Buhari served Nigeria with deep patriotism and integrity. This public holiday offers citizens across the country a chance to reflect on his immense contributions to national development and democracy,” said Dr. Tunji-Ojo in the official statement.
The Federal Executive Council is expected to hold a special session on Tuesday in Abuja to discuss state funeral arrangements and other plans for Buhari’s final rites.
In Katsina State, where Buhari hailed from, the government had already declared Monday, July 14, a work-free day to allow citizens to mourn their former governor and national figure.
Buhari, a former military head of state and two-term civilian president (2015–2023), was widely known for his stance on anti-corruption, national security, and infrastructural development. His death has sparked tributes from national and international leaders, including former Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo, Goodluck Jonathan, and Ibrahim Babangida, as well as current African heads of state.
The details of Buhari’s burial are expected to be announced in the coming days.
