Buhari passed away on Sunday at a medical clinic in London, United Kingdom.
The public holiday comes in addition to the seven-day national mourning period previously declared by President Bola Tinubu.
Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, announced the holiday in a statement issued on Monday through Magdalene Ajani, the Permanent Secretary of the ministry.
Tunji-Ojo explained that the holiday serves as a tribute to Buhari’s role in advancing Nigeria’s democracy and development.
“President Muhammadu Buhari served Nigeria with dedication, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to the unity and progress of our great nation,” the minister said.
“This public holiday provides an opportunity for all Nigerians to reflect on his life, leadership, and the values he upheld.”
Tunji-Ojo urged citizens to use the day to foster peace, patriotism, and national unity, in line with Buhari’s vision.
Federal Government Declares Tuesday As Public Holiday In Honour Of Buhari
Sudanese Army Recaptures Key Territory In North Kordofan From RSF
On Sunday, the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF), alongside allied militia groups, successfully reclaimed the strategic Umm Sumayyah area in North Kordofan State from the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). Located west of the regional capital, El-Obeid, the area had seen fierce fighting.
Darfur Governor Minni Minnawi publicly welcomed the liberation of Umm Sumayyah, celebrating its return under government control, though he offered no additional specifics. A joint statement from the allied forces described a “complete victory and cleansing” of the territory after intense clashes drove out RSF fighters.
Earlier that day, the RSF had announced it had captured Umm Sumayyah following heavy fighting with the army, highlighting the volatile and contested nature of the battlefield.
According to humanitarian officials, around 675 families were forced to flee nearby villages, Al‑Kurdi and Shaq Al‑Noum, due to heightened violence on Friday and Saturday.
This development marks another chapter in the ongoing, bloody confrontations across the wider Kordofan region comprising North, West, and South Kordofan where government troops and RSF forces continue to clash.
Since the war erupted in April 2023, fighting between the army and RSF has killed over 20,000 people and displaced around 14 million. However, independent research suggests the real death toll could be much higher, with estimates nearing 130,000.
Sinner Downs Alcaraz To Win First Wimbledon Title
World No. 1 Jannik Sinner captured his maiden Wimbledon title on Sunday with a thrilling 4-6, 6-4, 6-4, 6-4 victory over defending champion Carlos Alcaraz, avenging his heartbreaking loss to the Spaniard in last month’s French Open final.
The 23-year-old becomes the first Italian in history to lift the trophy at the All England Club and now boasts four Grand Slam titles a remarkable feat that firmly establishes him as the sport’s new dominant force.
After dropping the opening set, Sinner remained composed, refusing to allow the momentum to slip away again. He was rock-solid throughout the final three sets, not facing a single break of serve. Unlike in Paris, where he squandered multiple championship points, this time Sinner closed the match with authority, sealing victory on his second opportunity.
“I’m living my dream,” Sinner said to an ecstatic Centre Court crowd. Turning to Alcaraz, he added, “It’s always so tough to play against you. Thank you for the amazing battle. I’m going to keep this (trophy)you already have two!”
The rivalry between Sinner and Alcaraz has quickly become tennis’s most compelling storyline in the post-Federer, Nadal, and Djokovic era. Between them, they have now claimed the last seven Grand Slam titles, with Sinner accounting for four.
Sunday’s triumph was particularly sweet for Sinner, who had lost five straight matches to Alcaraz, including the Italian Open final his first tournament back after serving a three-month doping suspension. But on the sport’s grandest stage, he delivered a performance worthy of a champion.
The match opened evenly, but it was Alcaraz who seized the first set after breaking Sinner at 4-4 and then converting on his second set point with a stunning backhand winner. The Spaniard ignited the crowd, which included Prince William and Catherine, Princess of Wales.
Undeterred, Sinner broke early in the second set and held firm despite a brief interruption caused by a flying cork on court. A powerful forehand secured the set and brought him level.
The third set remained tight until Alcaraz slipped on the baseline in the ninth game, handing Sinner the critical break. Riding the wave of momentum, Sinner broke again early in the fourth set to take control.
Although Alcaraz fought valiantly and carved out two break points at 3-4, Sinner held his nerve. Serving for the championship, the Italian closed it out on his second match point, greeted by a roar of approval from the crowd.
Sinner’s journey to the title was marked by dominance he lost just 17 games in his first three matches, equaling a record set in 1972. He survived a scare in the fourth round when opponent Grigor Dimitrov, leading by two sets, was forced to retire injured. From there, he found his rhythm, defeating 10th seed Ben Shelton in the quarters before dismantling seven-time champion Novak Djokovic in the semis.
Alcaraz, who was aiming to become just the fifth man in the Open era to win three consecutive Wimbledon titles alongside Borg, Sampras, Federer, and Djokovic fell just short in his bid for history.
N’Assembly Pauses Plenary To Honour Former President Buhari
The National Assembly has halted all legislative proceedings in response to the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari, who died on Sunday in London, United Kingdom.
This adjustment was disclosed in a statement issued on Monday by the Clerk to the National Assembly, Kamoru Ogunlana.
According to Ogunlana, the leadership of both the Senate and the House of Representatives has ordered the suspension of all plenary sessions and legislative activities until Tuesday, July 22.
He noted that the move was made as a mark of respect for Buhari’s contributions and service to the country.
“I am directed by the President of the Senate and the Speaker of the House of Representatives to inform all members of the National Assembly and the general public that all legislative activities in the National Assembly are hereby suspended immediately until Tuesday, 22nd July, 2025.
“The leadership of both chambers also extended condolences to the government and people of Nigeria, the government and people of Katsina State, and the Buhari family, including his wives and children.
“Lawmakers have been urged to adjust their schedules to participate fully in the burial activities of the late former President.
“Buhari will be remembered for his commitment to Nigeria’s unity and his integrity,” the statement added.
Buhari, who first led Nigeria as Head of State from 1983 to 1985 and later served as an elected president from 2015 to 2023, passed away at the age of 82.
Federal Government Opens Recruitment Portal For Paramilitary Agencies
The Federal Ministry of Interior has announced that recruitment into four major paramilitary agencies; Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Federal Fire Service (NFS), and Nigerian Correctional Service (NCS) will begin on Monday, July 14, 2025.
In a statement released over the weekend, the ministry urged interested and qualified Nigerians to apply through the official recruitment portal: recruitment.cdcfib.gov.ng.
The ministry advised applicants to visit its website for comprehensive details on eligibility criteria, application guidelines, and other essential instructions.
This recruitment drive follows the federal government’s June announcement to employ 30,000 new personnel across the four paramilitary services nationwide.
The Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB) had initially planned to open the recruitment portal on June 26, 2025, but postponed it.
“The Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB), wishes to notify the general public that its recruitment portal, which was earlier slated to open on Thursday, 26th June, 2025, will now open on Monday, 14th July, 2025.”
The recruitment is open to male and female Nigerian citizens aged 18 to 35 who meet the minimum physical and medical standards.
“The recruitment exercise seeks to employ personnel into the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Federal Fire Service, Nigeria Correctional Service, and the Nigeria Immigration Service,” the ministry’s statement noted, encouraging eligible candidates to seize this opportunity to serve in these critical agencies.
South Africa’s Police Minister Suspended
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has suspended Police Minister Senzo Mchunu following allegations that he interfered with investigations into politically motivated assassinations. The decision comes amid mounting pressure to address claims that senior figures in law enforcement have been obstructing justice for political gain.
The controversy began after KwaZulu-Natal’s police commissioner accused Mchunu of disrupting a task team that had been probing a series of political killings. According to the commissioner, the minister shut down the unit and failed to support its operations, raising concerns that he may have been shielding individuals tied to political violence.
Mchunu has denied the allegations, insisting they are baseless and politically driven. Nevertheless, President Ramaphosa has taken the matter seriously, launching an independent judicial commission to investigate the accusations.
The inquiry will be led by a retired deputy chief justice, supported by two senior advocates. The panel has been granted powers to recommend criminal charges, refer cases to the appropriate authorities, and advise on suspending any officials found to be involved in misconduct.
While the investigation is ongoing, a law professor has been appointed as the acting Police Minister. The commission is expected to release a preliminary report within three months, and a full report in six. In the meantime, opposition parties have criticized Ramaphosa’s handling of the situation, with some calling for a vote of no confidence in Parliament.
The suspension has reignited debate over the integrity of South Africa’s law enforcement institutions, especially amid ongoing concerns about the country’s high rates of violent crime. Many view the move as a defining moment for Ramaphosa’s presidency, testing his resolve to clean up state institutions and reaffirm the government’s commitment to justice.
India’s First Space Station Visitor Heads Home After Historic Mission
Shubhanshu Shukla, who etched his name in history as the first Indian to ever visit the International Space Station (ISS), is now on his return journey to Earth.
A live stream on Monday showed the Axiom-4 (Ax-4) mission capsule detaching from the ISS with all four crew members on board. The spacecraft is expected to land in the ocean within the next 24 hours.
Commanded by seasoned spaceflight expert Peggy Whitson, the Ax-4 mission launched to the ISS on 26 June. On board were pilot Group Captain Shukla, Polish astronaut Slawosz Uznanski-Wisniewski, and Hungarian astronaut Tibor Kapu.
Group Captain Shukla is only the second Indian ever to journey into space. His historic trip follows that of Rakesh Sharma, who traveled aboard a Soviet Soyuz spacecraft in 1984 more than four decades ago.
Operated by Axiom Space, the Ax-4 mission represents a public-private collaboration involving the United States, India, Europe, and a private launch provider.
A post on X from the ISS account confirmed that all crew members had taken their places inside the capsule and that the spacecraft’s hatches had been sealed before undocking.
The return capsule is expected to make a controlled splashdown in the Pacific Ocean near California, where a recovery ship will be stationed to collect the crew.
India’s Minister for Science and Technology, Jitendra Singh, has announced that the landing is scheduled for 15 July at around 15:00 IST (09:30 GMT).
In an emotional message broadcast from space the day before undocking, Group Captain Shukla reflected on India’s entry into the field of human spaceflight.
“It has been an incredible journey. Even though now it is coming to an end, for you and me there is a long way to go. The journey of our human space mission is very long and difficult. But if we are determined, even the stars are attainable.”
He recalled how India’s first space traveler, Rakesh Sharma, famously quoted the 1924 patriotic Urdu song Sare Jahan Se Achha when asked how India appeared from space.
“Even today we want to know how it looks from space. I’ll tell you. From space, today’s India looks ambitious. It looks fearless. It looks confident. It looks proud. And so, I can once again say that today’s India still looks better than the rest of the world,” Group Captain Shukla said.
Originally intended as a two-week mission aboard the ISS, Ax-4 extended its stay by a few days. During their time in orbit, the team completed 60 scientific experiments, seven of which were developed by India’s space agency.
The agency had invested 5 billion rupees (approximately $59 million) for Group Captain Shukla’s seat on Ax-4, including his training and travel. Officials have noted that the knowledge and skills he has gained will be crucial for India’s future space efforts.
India has set bold targets for the coming decades, its first human spaceflight, Gaganyaan, is set for launch in 2027. Long-term plans include establishing a space station by 2035 and sending an astronaut to the Moon by 2040.
Group Captain Shukla is one of four Indian Air Force officers who were shortlisted to participate in the Gaganyaan program.
Born in Lucknow on 10 October 1985, Shukla joined the Indian Air Force in 2006 as a fighter pilot.
Over his career, he has flown a variety of aircraft including MiGs, Sukhois, Dorniers, Jaguars, and Hawks, logging more than 2,000 hours of flight time.
Reflecting on his preparation for space, he described the past year as transformative.
“It has been an amazing journey so far, but the best is yet to come,” he said. “As I go into space, I carry not just instruments and equipment, I carry hopes and dreams of a billion hearts. I request all Indians to pray for the success of our mission,” he had said.
Former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari To Be Buried Tuesday In Daura
The burial of former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari has been scheduled for Tuesday, July 15, at 2 p.m. in his hometown of Daura, Katsina State, according to an announcement by Katsina State Governor Dikko Umar Radda.
The former president passed away on Sunday, July 13, at the age of 82, following a prolonged illness in a London hospital.
Governor Radda, addressing journalists at the Government House on Monday shortly after returning from London, confirmed that consultations with Buhari’s family and associates had finalized the burial arrangements.
“We’ve made consultations with the people around him in London, and we concluded that the body will arrive in Katsina tomorrow (Tuesday) at about 12 noon, and the burial is going to take place in Daura at about 2 p.m.,” Radda stated.
He was joined by Buhari’s nephews, Fatuhu Mohammed and Musa Haro, as well as former Aviation Minister Hadi Sirika.
The governor prayed for the late president, saying, “We pray to Almighty Allah to grant his soul peace and may Allah grant him Aljanna Firdausi.”
The body of the former president is currently being flown from London to Nigeria, with Vice President Kashim Shettima and Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila overseeing its return.
President Bola Tinubu declared a seven-day national mourning period to honor Buhari, while the Katsina State government designated Monday as a public holiday to allow residents to mourn the late leader.
Buhari, who served as Nigeria’s president from 2015 to 2023, had previously led the country as military head of state from January 1984 to August 1985. His death marks the end of a significant chapter in Nigeria’s political history.
WAFCON: Super Falcon Top Group Despite Goalless Draw against Algeria
The Super Falcons of Nigeria were left to rue a night of missed opportunities after they were held to a goalless draw by the Algerian women’s national team in their final Group B match at the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
Despite dominating virtually every statistical category possession, shots, corners, and touches in the opposition box Nigeria failed to find the breakthrough, leaving coach Justin Madugu’s side frustrated and with plenty to ponder ahead of the knockout stage.
From the outset, the Super Falcons took control of the game, registering 24 shots to Algeria’s solitary effort. Nigeria enjoyed 55% possession, completed over 300 accurate passes, and created several promising openings. Yet, they managed just two shots on target, underlining a lack of precision and composure in the final third.
A key turning point came in the 54th minute when Esther Okoronkwo replaced Ifeyinwa Onumonu in a bid to inject fresh energy into the attack. Subsequent substitutions saw Folashade Ijamilusi and Rinsola Babajide introduced to stretch the Algerian defense with pace and width. However, Algeria remained compact and disciplined, with their goalkeeper making two vital saves to preserve the clean sheet.
Defensively, Nigeria were solid and largely untroubled, conceding only one off-target attempt. But their inability to convert dominance into goals proved costly, as the team failed to capitalize on their overwhelming superiority.
As the Super Falcons head into the knockout rounds, Coach Madugu faces lingering questions over his side’s attacking efficiency. While the performance showed control, purpose, and defensive discipline, the lack of end product will be a central concern moving forward.
Key Historic Moments During Buhari’s Administration
Nigeria is in mourning following the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away in London at the age of 82. Vice President Kashim Shettima has arrived in the UK to coordinate the repatriation of Buhari’s body. The federal government is expected to announce formal burial arrangements soon, in line with Islamic rites.
Buhari’s passing marks the end of a significant chapter in Nigeria’s political story, one that spanned nearly five decades and saw him from a military officer to national ruler.
From Soldier To Statesman: Buhari’s Profile
Born on December 17, 1942, in Daura, Katsina State, Buhari joined the Nigerian Army in 1961. By the mid-1970s, he was already a rising figure, serving first as the military governor of the newly created Borno State, and later as Federal Commissioner (Minister) for Petroleum and Natural Resources under General Olusegun Obasanjo.
His first major political turning point came in 1983 when he seized power through a military coup, removing the democratically elected government of President Shehu Shagari. Though his own military rule was short-lived, he was ousted in 1985, Buhari remained a persistent figure in Nigeria’s political landscape.
After several failed attempts at the presidency, he finally made a dramatic democratic comeback in 2015, defeating incumbent Goodluck Jonathan in what became a historic election. Buhari went on to serve two full terms, handing over power in 2023.
Highlights And Achievements
Buhari’s presidency was a mix of bold initiatives and deep criticism. But there’s no denying he left behind key milestones:
A Historic Democratic Victory (2015)
Buhari became the first opposition candidate in Nigeria’s history to defeat a sitting president, a landmark moment that signaled Nigeria’s growing democratic maturity.
Anti-Corruption Drive
He ran on a strong anti-corruption message, and during his tenure, billions in stolen public funds were recovered. His government also intensified EFCC prosecutions and worked with global partners to retrieve looted assets.
Infrastructural Development
From the Second Niger Bridge to the Abuja-Kaduna rail line and the Zungeru Hydroelectric Plant, Buhari invested heavily in transportation and power projects, aiming to reshape Nigeria’s economic backbone.
Pushing Back Boko Haram
At the start of his presidency, the terrorist group Boko Haram controlled large swathes of the Northeast. Buhari’s administration launched aggressive military offensives that reclaimed key territories and weakened the group’s grip.
Peaceful Power Transition (2023)
Unlike many African leaders, Buhari respected constitutional term limits and peacefully handed over power to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu reinforcing Nigeria’s democratic foundation.
Controversies And Criticisms
Despite these achievements, Buhari’s leadership was never without criticism and some moments still spark heated debate today:
The 1984 Dikko Affair
During his military regime, a botched attempt to kidnap exiled minister Umaru Dikko in London triggered a diplomatic crisis. The UK responded by revoking Nigeria’s visa-free entry status, a stain on foreign relations.
Lagos Metroline Cancellation
One of his early controversial decisions as Head of State was halting Lagos’s metro rail project in 1983. The move set back the city’s transport system by decades.
Medical Tourism
Even while leading a country with an underfunded health system, Buhari frequently traveled to the UK for medical treatment, drawing criticism for neglecting Nigeria’s healthcare infrastructure.
Corruption Within His Cabinet
Though Buhari branded himself as an anti-corruption crusader, several close associates, including EFCC Chairman Ibrahim Magu, were later accused of misconduct raising questions about selective justice.
Twitter Ban (2021)
After Twitter deleted one of Buhari’s tweets, his administration responded by banning the platform entirely. The move sparked both domestic outrage and international condemnation, seen by many as an attack on digital freedom.
Rehabilitating Boko Haram Fighters
Buhari’s policy of reintegrating “repentant” Boko Haram fighters back into society struck a nerve with many Nigerians, particularly victims and displaced persons who saw it as an insult to justice. The “Jibril from Sudan” Conspiracy
In perhaps the strangest twist of Buhari’s time in power, a viral conspiracy theory claimed he had died during a medical trip and been replaced by a body double named “Jibril from Sudan.”
Despite being repeatedly debunked, the rumor gained surprising traction fed by long absences from the public eye and deep public mistrust in government transparency. Buhari laughed it off publicly, but it became an odd, unforgettable part of his legacy.
President Muhammadu Buhari leaves behind a nation he both inspired and frustrated. To supporters, he was a disciplined patriot who tried to steady the nation’s moral compass. To critics, he was an aloof, authoritarian figure whose administration fell short on human rights, economic relief, and institutional reform.
As tributes pour in, history will continue to debate whether Buhari was the guardian of Nigeria’s soul or one of its most misunderstood leaders. Either way, his imprint on Nigeria is permanent, etched in concrete, constitution, and controversy.
