Nigeria Declares National Mourning and Public Holiday to Honor Former President Muhammadu Buhari

The Federal Government of Nigeria has declared Tuesday July 15, 2025, a public holiday in honor of the late former President Muhammadu Buhari who passed away on Sunday July 13, 2025 in a London hospital after a prolonged illness.

President Bola Tinubu has ordered a seven-day national mourning period during which flags across the country are flying at half-staff as a mark of respect.

Buhari, who was 82, served as Nigeria’s democratically elected president from 2015 to 2023 and previously ruled as military head of state from January 1984 to August 1985.

Known for his strong stance against corruption and efforts to combat insecurity, Buhari’s leadership left a lasting imprint on Nigeria’s political landscape.

In a statement, Buhari’s family announced his death, with spokesperson Garba Shehu expressing the family’s grief and praying for his peaceful rest.

Buhari had been receiving medical treatment in London for several weeks before his passing reportedly due to leukemia.

President Tinubu expressed condolences to the late leader’s family and directed Vice President Kashim Shettima and his chief of staff to travel to London to oversee the repatriation of Buhari’s remains.

The government confirmed that Buhari will be buried in his home state, Katsina, according to Islamic rites.

The death of former President Buhari has prompted condolences from Nigerian leaders and the international community.

The United States Mission in Nigeria described Buhari as a leader defined by discipline and a commitment to restoring integrity to public office.

Flags across Nigeria have been lowered to half-mast in compliance with the national mourning directive, and official events have been postponed as the nation pays tribute to one of its most prominent statesmen.

Further details regarding funeral arrangements and state honors are expected to be announced in the coming days.