The Federal Government of Nigeria has officially designated Tuesday, July 15, 2025, as a public holiday in honour of the late former President Muhammadu Buhari, whose death was confirmed on Sunday.
This announcement was made through a statement issued by the Ministry of Interior. According to the release, the holiday is part of the ongoing national mourning declared by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which spans seven days.
Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, the Minister of Interior, made the announcement on behalf of the Federal Government following the President’s approval. He noted that the day off is intended to pay tribute to Buhari’s leadership, public service, and influence on Nigeria’s democratic growth and development.
“President Muhammadu Buhari served this country with loyalty, honesty, and a strong commitment to national unity and progress,” the Minister said. “The declaration of this public holiday allows Nigerians to pause and reflect on his life, his governance style, and the principles he stood for.”
Chronicles Reporters earlier reported that the expected arrival of Buhari’s remains in Nigeria on Monday was postponed, necessitating adjustments to the burial plans.
Bashir Ahmad, a former media aide to Buhari, announced on Monday via his X handle (formerly Twitter) that the late President’s body is now due to arrive in Katsina by noon on Tuesday. His burial will follow at 2 p.m. in Daura, his hometown in Katsina State.
“The body of the late President Muhammadu Buhari is expected to arrive in Katsina at 12:00 noon tomorrow, with funeral rites in accordance with Islamic traditions scheduled for 2:00 PM in his hometown of Daura,” Ahmad shared.
Earlier, Chronicles Reporters had disclosed that certain complications in London prevented the body from being flown to Nigeria on Monday as initially planned. Sources in the United Kingdom cited medical procedures, flight arrangements, and other logistical delays as factors responsible for the change in schedule.
The declaration of Tuesday as a public holiday is intended to allow Nigerians across the country to mourn and reflect on the passing of the polarizing former leader.
Vice President Kashim Shettima, who has been in the United Kingdom since Sunday, was reportedly updated on the alterations to the funeral schedule.
In addition to the public holiday, President Bola Tinubu earlier directed that the Nigerian national flag be flown at half-mast across the country for seven days in honour of the deceased former President.
This directive was conveyed via a statement from Segun Imohiosen, Director of Information at the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, acting on behalf of SGF George Akume.
The flag-lowering directive takes effect immediately and will continue until Saturday, July 19, 2025. Akume, speaking on behalf of the Federal Executive Council, described Muhammadu Buhari as a man of patriotism and discipline who served Nigeria with unwavering commitment and honour.
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