In a unified gesture of mourning and respect, governors from Nigeria’s Northwest region have declared Tuesday, July 15, 2025, a public holiday across all seven states to honour the late former President Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away on Sunday in a London hospital.
The announcement came through a statement released by the Chairman of the North West Governors Forum and Governor of Katsina State, Dikko Umar Radda.
Describing Buhari as “our father, our leader, and the pride of the Northwest region,” Radda emphasized the former president’s enduring legacy of service, discipline, and national devotion.
“The Northwest Governors Forum receives with shock and deep sorrow the news of the passing of our beloved former President, General Muhammadu Buhari. He lived a life of service, integrity, and sacrifice for the betterment of Nigeria,” Radda stated.
According to the forum, the public holiday decision was made collectively by all seven governors in the region as a mark of honour for the late statesman.
President Buhari’s remains are expected to arrive in Katsina on Tuesday by 12 noon. His burial will take place at 2 p.m. in his hometown of Daura, in accordance with Islamic rites.
Security personnel, religious leaders, political dignitaries, and foreign diplomats are expected to attend the state burial.
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Condolences have continued to pour in from national and international figures.
Radda also extended sympathy to President Bola Tinubu, the Buhari family, the people of Katsina State, and all Nigerians grieving the loss.
General Muhammadu Buhari, a retired army officer, ruled Nigeria as a military leader from 1983 to 1985 and later served two terms as a democratically elected president from 2015 to 2023.
He was widely known for his anti-corruption campaign and frugal personal lifestyle, earning both praise and criticism throughout his decades in public service.
As Nigeria prepares for one of its most significant state funerals in recent memory, flags are expected to fly at half-mast and moments of silence will be observed across many public institutions nationwide.