Northwest Governors declare public holiday to honour late Buhari

Governors of the Northwest region have declared Tuesday, July 15, 2025, a public holiday to mourn the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari. The announcement was made following the passing of the former leader on Sunday at a hospital in the United Kingdom.

In a statement signed by the Chairman of the Northwest Governors Forum and Governor of Katsina State, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, the governors expressed deep sorrow, describing Buhari’s death as a national tragedy. “We received with shock and profound sadness the news of the passing of our beloved former President, General Muhammadu Buhari,” Radda stated.

Radda praised Buhari as a figure of immense influence and sacrifice. “He was not just a leader but a father and the pride of the Northwest. His life was marked by unwavering integrity, patriotic service, and devotion to Nigeria,” he said.

The public holiday will be observed across all seven states of the Northwest: Kaduna, Katsina, Kano, Kebbi, Jigawa, Sokoto, and Zamfara.

According to Radda, the move is aimed at enabling residents to reflect and honour the legacy of the departed statesman. “This gesture reflects the deep reverence we hold for a man who dedicated his entire life to serving Nigeria and humanity,” he said.

Plans for Buhari’s final rites have been confirmed. His remains will arrive in Katsina by noon on Tuesday, with burial prayers and interment scheduled for 2:00 PM the same day, in line with Islamic customs. The event is expected to draw dignitaries from across the nation.

The Northwest Governors Forum also called on citizens across Nigeria to offer prayers for Buhari’s soul. The Forum urged Nigerians to remain united in mourning and to draw strength from the former president’s example of sacrifice and service.

Governor Radda, speaking on behalf of his colleagues, extended heartfelt condolences to President Bola Tinubu, the Buhari family, and the people of Katsina State. He emphasized that the late president’s contributions would continue to inspire generations.

“May Allah (SWT) grant him Aljanah Firdaus and give his family, friends, and the entire nation the strength to endure this monumental loss,” Radda concluded.