President Tinubu reschedules tribute meeting after funeral delays
Abuja, Nigeria – President Bola Tinubu moved the special Federal Executive Council (FEC)session honouring late former President Muhammadu Buhari to Thursday, July 17, 2025. The tribute session was postponed from Tuesday due to delays transporting Buhari’s remains from London and funeral arrangements in Daura.
Buhari died Sunday, July 13, in London after a prolonged illness. He served as Nigeria’s president from 2015 to 2023.
Thursday Session Details
The FEC session begins at 1:00 PM Thursday at the Presidential Villa. President Tinubu will lead tributes as cabinet members honor the former leader.
Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, confirmed the new date on X. “A special session of the Federal Executive Council in honour of former President Muhammadu Buhari will be held on Thursday 17 July from 1pm,” he posted.
The presidency cited transport delays and funeral coordination as reasons for the postponement. Officials wanted proper time for Islamic burial rites in Daura.
National Mourning Period
President Tinubu ordered flags to fly at half-staff for seven days starting Monday. The directive covers all government buildings nationwide.
“As a mark of respect to our former leader, I have directed that all national flags fly at half-staff across the country for seven days from today,” Tinubu stated.
The government declared Tuesday, July 15, a public holiday in Buhari’s honor. Government offices and schools closed to allow mourning activities.
State Funeral Arrangements
Buhari will receive full state honors before burial in his hometown Daura. The Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation coordinates memorial activities.
Islamic burial rites will follow traditional customs in Daura. Family members and government officials will attend the ceremony.
“The Federal Government will accord President Buhari full state honours befitting his towering contributions to our country,” Tinubu confirmed.
Political Response
Political leaders across parties praised Buhari’s service. Opposition parties suspended campaign activities to honor the former president.
Buhari led anti-corruption efforts and infrastructure development during his presidency. His administration completed railway projects and improved power generation.
Citizens gathered at government buildings to pay respects. Social media tributes highlighted Buhari’s integrity and public service record.
The Thursday FEC session will formally close the government’s initial tribute period before burial proceedings in Katsina State.
By Abdullah Korede
