Seven states across Nigeria’s Northwest will observe a public holiday on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, in honour of former President Muhammadu Buhari, whose death on Sunday sent ripples of mourning through the country. The announcement was made on Monday by Governor Dikko Umar Radda of Katsina State, who also chairs the Northwest Governors Forum.
The declaration affects Kaduna, Katsina, Kano, Kebbi, Jigawa, Sokoto, and Zamfara States, whose leaders unanimously agreed that residents deserve time to mourn and honour the late statesman, a native of Daura in Katsina. According to Governor Radda, Buhari was “more than a leader — he was a symbol of discipline, patriotism, and service.”
Buhari’s remains are expected to arrive at Umaru Musa Yar’Adua Airport in Katsina by 12:00 p.m. Tuesday. Burial prayers and interment will take place at 2:00 p.m. in Daura, in accordance with Islamic rites. Dignitaries from across Nigeria and representatives of the international community are expected to attend.
The Forum described Buhari as “a father to the region and a pride to the entire nation,” highlighting his decades of service as military Head of State, petroleum minister, and two-term civilian president. The governors noted that his legacy is one of “sacrifice, incorruptibility, and an unshakable belief in Nigeria’s unity.”
Beyond regional admiration, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had earlier declared a seven-day national mourning period beginning Monday, ordering all flags at half-mast in federal institutions. The decision by the Northwest governors aligns with this national tribute and underscores Buhari’s profound influence on the region he once governed and called home.
Public and private institutions in the affected states will be closed on Tuesday. Community prayers, special remembrance services, and Qur’anic recitations are expected across mosques and public venues in honour of the late president.
The Northwest Governors Forum also called on Nigerians, regardless of political or religious background, to unite in prayer for the repose of Buhari’s soul and remain steadfast in the pursuit of the values he lived by — integrity, nationhood, and public service.
