President Bola Tinubu has announced that former President Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away earlier on Sunday in the United Kingdom, will be accorded full state honours by the Federal Government of Nigeria.
In a statement released from the State House on Sunday, President Tinubu described Buhari as “a patriot, a soldier, and a statesman,” whose life was marked by selfless service and unwavering commitment to the Nigerian nation.
“It is with profound sorrow and a heavy heart that I received the news of the passing of His Excellency, Major General Muhammadu Buhari (Rtd), GCFR, my predecessor, who departed this life today, Sunday, July 13, 2025, at a hospital in the United Kingdom,” the statement read.
The President noted that Buhari’s legacy of duty and honour continues to endure across generations.
“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. Duty, honour, and a deep commitment to the unity and progress of our nation defined his life.”
Recalling Buhari’s steadfast leadership during critical moments in the country’s history, President Tinubu praised his integrity, discipline, and unshakable belief in Nigeria’s potential.
“He stood firm through the most turbulent times, leading with quiet strength, profound integrity, and an unshakable belief in Nigeria’s potential. He championed discipline in public service, confronted corruption head-on, and placed the country above personal interest at every turn”, Tinubu said.
In line with his immense contributions to national development, Tinubu announced that full state honours will be accorded to Buhari. These include:
National flags to fly at half-staff across the country and Nigerian missions abroad for seven days beginning Sunday, July 13.
An emergency Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting will be held on Tuesday, July 15, solely in Buhari’s honour.
The Federal Government will oversee and coordinate state funeral arrangements, with further details to be announced.
President Tinubu also extended heartfelt condolences to Buhari’s widow, Aisha Buhari, his children, and the wider Buhari family.
“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.”
He also commiserated with the government and people of Katsina State, particularly the Daura Emirate, where Buhari hailed from.
“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.”
