Skip to content
President declares July 15 public holiday as Nigeria mourns former leader
Abuja, FCT – President Bola Tinubu has established an Inter-Ministerial Committee to organize a state burial for former President Muhammadu Buhari, who died over the weekend. The committee will be chaired by Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, as Nigeria begins seven days of national mourning.
Committee Membership Announced
Senator George Akume will lead the Inter-Ministerial Committee responsible for funeral arrangements. The committee includes Ministers of Finance, Defence, Information, Works, Interior, and the Federal Capital Territory, plus the National Security Adviser and presidential aides.
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, has approved the constitution of an Inter-Ministerial Committee for the State Funeral of former President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR,” announced Director of Information Segun Imohiosen.
The committee will coordinate all aspects of the state burial according to established protocols.
Condolence Registers Open Nationwide
President Tinubu ordered all government offices to open condolence registers at their entrances. Citizens can sign the registers at any Ministry, Department, or Agency office across the country.
Two central locations will serve the diplomatic community and general public: the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre in Abuja.
The registers will remain open throughout the seven-day mourning period that began Sunday, July 13.
July 15 Declared Public Holiday
The government declared Tuesday, July 15, a public holiday to honor Buhari’s memory. Interior Minister Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo announced the decision through Permanent Secretary Dr. Magdalene Ajani.
“President Muhammadu Buhari served Nigeria with dedication, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to the unity and progress of our great nation. This public holiday provides an opportunity for all Nigerians to reflect on his life, leadership, and the values he upheld,” Dr. Tunji-Ojo said.
The minister urged citizens to use the day to promote peace, patriotism, and national unity.
National Mourning Protocols
National flags will fly at half-mast during the mourning period across all government buildings. The directive covers federal, state, and local government facilities.
“The Federal Government extends its deepest condolences to the family of the late president, the people of Katsina State, and all Nigerians, while praying for the peaceful repose of his soul,” the government statement said.
The state funeral will follow protocols established for former heads of state. Specific details about timing and location remain under committee planning.
By Abiodun Labi
