Federal Government Declares Tuesday Public Holiday to Honour Former President Buhari’s Legacy and Final Journey

 

The Federal Government has officially declared Tuesday, July 15, 2025, a national public holiday in remembrance of Nigeria’s former President, Muhammadu Buhari, who died on Sunday in London. This announcement came on Monday from the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, through a statement that emphasized the nation's decision to honor the life and service of the late leader.

The decision to observe a national holiday is seen as a gesture of profound respect for the former head of state who twice led Nigeria, first as a military ruler in the 1980s and later as a democratically elected president from 2015 to 2023. His influence on the country’s political landscape spanned decades, making his passing a significant moment in the nation's contemporary history.

The former president reportedly passed away peacefully in a London hospital surrounded by members of his immediate family and close aides. Official sources confirmed that his remains will be laid to rest on Tuesday in accordance with Islamic rites, and the funeral ceremony is expected to attract dignitaries from across the globe. Leaders from various African nations, as well as representatives from international organizations, are set to attend the burial.

National mourning has quickly spread across political and religious lines. Tributes have poured in from prominent Nigerians including former presidents, governors, lawmakers, traditional rulers, and religious leaders, all eulogizing the late Buhari for his decades of commitment to the Nigerian project. From his early days in the military to his second term as a civilian president, Buhari was widely known for his stern personality, his anti-corruption stance, and his promise to instill discipline and order in the public sector.

Federal ministries, state institutions, schools, and banks will remain closed on Tuesday as part of the holiday observance. Security agencies have also been placed on alert to ensure order during the national day of mourning. According to Tunji-Ojo, Nigerians are encouraged to spend the day reflecting on the contributions of the late president and the lessons that can be drawn from his leadership.

Buhari’s political journey was marked by a mix of controversy, admiration, and criticism. A disciplinarian by reputation, he led a military coup in December 1983, toppling the civilian government of Shehu Shagari. His first tenure as a military leader was short-lived, ending in 1985, but it left behind a reputation for integrity and discipline. Decades later, he re-emerged as a civilian politician under the All Progressives Congress (APC) banner, defeating incumbent President Goodluck Jonathan in a historic 2015 election.

Supporters of the late president often describe him as a man who brought a sense of purpose to Nigeria’s fight against corruption and insecurity. His opponents, however, criticized his economic policies and perceived lack of inclusiveness. Regardless of differing opinions, the prevailing sentiment on Monday reflected a nation united in grief, recognizing a former president whose imprint on Nigeria’s political system remains indelible.

At the federal level, President Bola Tinubu has directed that all flags fly at half-mast from Monday through Wednesday in honor of Buhari. He expressed deep sadness at the loss, describing Buhari as a statesman who remained committed to the unity and sovereignty of Nigeria until his last breath.

Across the northern region, where Buhari enjoyed strong support, community gatherings and prayer sessions have been scheduled throughout the day. Civil society organizations and student unions in Abuja and Kaduna are also planning processions and candlelight vigils. In the South-West and South-East, governors have released individual statements of condolence and urged residents to mark the day with solemnity and unity.

Transportation hubs, particularly international airports, are expecting a spike in high-profile arrivals for Tuesday’s burial ceremony. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has released a provisional list of global dignitaries expected to pay their last respects, including several African heads of state, EU envoys, and representatives of the United Nations.

Although Tuesday is to be observed as a public holiday, the government has made it clear that this does not signal a halt to its ongoing developmental activities. A statement from the presidency emphasized that the day should be used to reflect on national values such as service, patriotism, and unity, which Buhari stood for throughout his life.

As Nigeria bids farewell to one of its most consequential leaders, the mood remains somber. From the quiet streets of Daura, Buhari’s hometown, to the bustling cityscape of Lagos, a cloud of reflection hangs over the country. Tuesday’s holiday offers a moment for Nigerians at home and abroad to pause and reflect on a life that shaped and challenged the nation in equal measure.