Public Holiday To Mourn Buhari: Roll Call, World Leaders Pay Tribute

Nigeria is observing a national public holiday today, Tuesday, July 15, 2025, as tributes pour in from across the world for former President Muhammadu Buhari, who died on Sunday in London at the age of 82.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu declared the public holiday in honour of the late statesman, ordering all national flags to fly at half-mast for seven days as a mark of respect.

Early this morning, Buhari’s remains departed the United Kingdom aboard a Nigerian Air Force aircraft. His body is expected to arrive in Katsina by 12:00 noon, with burial rites scheduled for 2:00 p.m. in his hometown of Daura, in accordance with Islamic traditions.

The body is being accompanied by Vice President Kashim Shettima, Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila, and other top government officials.
As the nation prepares for his final interment, a cascade of tributes has emerged from global leaders, institutions, and citizens, celebrating the life and legacy of a man many described as disciplined, devoted, and unwavering in his commitment to national and continental development.

Tributes From World Leaders

From across continents, messages of condolence have flowed in, recognizing Muhammadu Buhari as a significant figure in global affairs.

The United States Mission in Nigeria mourned him as “a leader whose life was defined by service, discipline, and a commitment to restore integrity to public office.” It added that his legacy would be remembered in his efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s democratic institutions.

The Chinese Embassy in Nigeria paid homage to his dedication and role in deepening China–Nigeria relations. “His pivotal contributions will forever remain etched in our shared history,” the embassy stated.

India’s Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, expressed sadness over Buhari’s death. “His wisdom, warmth and unwavering commitment to India–Nigeria friendship stood out,” he wrote on X.

Türkiye’s embassy in Nigeria also shared condolences, describing Buhari’s passing as a great loss and praying for the repose of his soul.

Amina Mohammed, the Deputy Secretary General of the United Nations, described him as a man who lived by discipline, humility, and deep love for Nigeria.

Akinwumi Adesina, outgoing President of the African Development Bank, expressed gratitude for Buhari’s leadership and personal support. “May God comfort your dear wife and family. May your soul rest in peace,” he posted.

African Leaders and Regional Bodies

Across the African continent, the loss of Buhari is being felt deeply.
Mahmoud Youssouf, Chairperson of the African Union Commission, described the late president as “a principled and resolute leader” and “a staunch Pan-Africanist and champion of regional integration.”

Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed extended his condolences, calling it “a profound moment of national mourning.”

Julius Maada Bio, President of Sierra Leone and current ECOWAS Chair, referred to Buhari’s death as a “devastating loss,” offering heartfelt sympathies to Nigeria’s government and people.

Dr. Omar Touray, President of ECOWAS, hailed Buhari as “a distinguished statesman whose invaluable contributions greatly advanced democracy and regional integration across Africa.”

Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director-General of the World Trade Organization, expressed sorrow at the sudden turn of events: “I did not know just how ill President Buhari was… I am so very sad. May his soul rest in perfect peace.”

Voices From Home: Workers, Kinsmen & Associates

Beyond officialdom, personal reflections from Buhari’s hometown and household reveal the quieter, more intimate aspects of his post-presidency life.
Following his retirement from office in 2023, Buhari spent his final years in Daura, Katsina State, surrounded by a close circle of domestic workers, neighbors, and longtime associates.

According to those who lived and worked with him, the former president remained approachable and emotionally connected to the people around him.

His domestic staff recalled his profound compassion, not just toward people, but also animals. Buhari was known to have a deep affection for his pets, including three aged tortoises and a small kiskadee bird that often visited his compound. He also cared for bulls, camels, horses, cows, and piccolo birds, which brought him joy in his final days.

“He was more than an employer,” one staff member said. “He was a guardian and a friend to us and our families.”

Others spoke of his generosity and empathy, sharing how he would personally visit a worker who lost a child or attend the naming ceremony of another’s newborn. Despite his stature, they say he remained grounded, often engaging in simple, heartfelt conversations that left lasting impressions.

Political and National Reflections

Back in the political circle, voices from across Nigeria’s political spectrum have united in mourning.

President Tinubu described Buhari as “a disciplined patriot whose unwavering belief in Nigeria’s unity guided his every action.”

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar praised him as a “man whose life was defined by unflinching patriotism,” while Peter Obi said his passing was “a solemn moment for the nation.”

Femi Otedola, billionaire businessman, recalled Buhari’s quiet strength and steadfast service, saying, “Whether in uniform or in civilian attire, his love for our country was unquestionable.”

The All Progressives Congress (APC), under whose platform Buhari was twice elected, hailed him as “an iconic elder-statesman and exemplary patriot.”

The opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP) also acknowledged his disciplined service to Nigeria, regardless of their political differences.

As the clock ticks toward his final burial in Daura, Nigeria stands still, united in memory, reverence, and solemn reflection for a leader whose life spanned soldiering, statecraft, and an unrelenting belief in the Nigerian dream.

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