Governors in Nigeria’s Northwest region have declared Tuesday, July 15, 2025, as a public holiday to honour the late former President Muhammadu Buhari, who died on Sunday in a hospital in London.
The decision was announced in a statement issued by the Chairman of the North West Governors Forum and Governor of Katsina State, Dikko Umaru Radda.
According to the statement, the holiday will be observed across all seven states in the region as a mark of respect for the former leader, who hailed from Katsina State.
The governors expressed deep sorrow over Buhari’s death, describing him as a national icon and a source of pride for the Northwest.
They praised his legacy of integrity, patriotism, and selfless service to Nigeria throughout his military and civilian leadership.
As part of the funeral arrangements, Buhari’s body is expected to arrive in his hometown of Daura, Katsina State, by midday on Tuesday. Burial rites, in accordance with Islamic tradition, are scheduled for 2 p.m. the same day.
The forum extended its condolences to President Bola Tinubu, the Buhari family, the government and people of Katsina State, and Nigerians at large. Citizens were also urged to offer prayers for the peaceful repose of the former President’s soul.
Muhammadu Buhari, a retired Army General, first led Nigeria as military Head of State from 1983 to 1985, and later returned as a democratically elected President from 2015 to 2023.
His leadership style, marked by simplicity and a strong anti-corruption agenda, left a lasting impact on the nation’s political landscape.
Dignitaries from across Nigeria and the international community are expected to attend the state burial ceremony in Daura.
