Daniel Otera
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has announced a special Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting scheduled for Tuesday, 15 July 2025, in honour of Nigeria’s former President, Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away on Sunday in a UK hospital.
In a heartfelt tribute personally signed and released Sunday evening, President Tinubu confirmed that the late Buhari would be accorded full state honours, describing his death as a moment of profound national loss.
“As a mark of respect to our former leader, I have directed that all national flags fly at half-staff across the country for seven days from today,” Tinubu declared. “I have also summoned an emergency Federal Executive Council session on Tuesday, dedicated to his honour.”
The President expressed deep sorrow over the passing of his predecessor, hailing Buhari as “a patriot, a soldier, a statesman,” whose service to the nation would never be forgotten.
“President Buhari was to the very core, a patriot, a soldier, a statesman. His legacy of service and sacrifice endures,” Tinubu wrote. “He served Nigeria with unwavering dedication, first as a military leader from January 1984 to August 1985, and later as a democratically elected President from 2015 to 2023.”
Reflecting on Buhari’s leadership style, Tinubu praised the late president’s resolve during trying times and his emphasis on discipline and national unity.
“He stood firm through the most turbulent times, leading with quiet strength, profound integrity, and an unshakable belief in Nigeria’s potential,” Tinubu stated. “He championed discipline in public service, confronted corruption head-on, and placed the country above personal interest at every turn.”
Condolences were extended to Buhari’s widow, Aisha Buhari, their children, and the wider Buhari family, as well as the people of Daura and Katsina State.
“In this moment of national mourning, I extend my deepest condolences to his beloved wife, Aisha, with whom I have been in constant touch, his children, the entire Buhari family, and all who knew and loved him,” said the President.
“I also extend my condolences to the government and people of Katsina State, most especially the people and traditional leaders of Daura Emirate.”
Assuring the nation of a befitting farewell, Tinubu stated that preparations were underway for a funeral that would reflect Buhari’s “towering contributions to our country.”
“We honour his service. We reflect on his legacy. And we pray for the peaceful repose of his soul. May Allah forgive his shortcomings and grant him Al-Jannah Firdaus. And may his life continue to inspire generations of Nigerians to serve with courage, conviction, and selflessness.”