ABUJA — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has summoned an emergency session of the Federal Executive Council (FEC) scheduled for Tuesday, July 15, 2025, in honour of the late former President Muhammadu Buhari, who died on Sunday in a United Kingdom hospital.
The President announced the special meeting in a heartfelt tribute personally signed on Sunday evening, just hours after confirmation of Buhari’s death.
Tinubu described the late leader as a patriot whose life was defined by “duty, honour, and deep commitment to Nigeria’s unity and progress.” He confirmed that Buhari would be given full state honours in recognition of his contributions to the country.
“As a mark of respect to our former leader, I have directed that all national flags across the nation be flown at half-mast for seven days beginning today,” Tinubu stated.
“I have also summoned an emergency Federal Executive Council session on Tuesday, dedicated solely to honouring the legacy of President Buhari.”
The President recounted Buhari’s decades of public service — first as Nigeria’s military Head of State between 1984 and 1985, and later as a democratically elected President who served two terms from 2015 to 2023.
“President Buhari was, to the very core, a patriot, a soldier, and a statesman. He stood firm through the most turbulent times, leading with quiet strength, profound integrity, and an unshakable belief in Nigeria’s potential,” Tinubu wrote.
He commended Buhari for confronting corruption and instilling a culture of discipline in public service, saying the late leader consistently placed national interest above personal ambition.
“He championed discipline, fought corruption with tenacity, and prioritised national unity at every turn,” Tinubu added.
The President extended condolences to former First Lady, Aisha Buhari, the Buhari family, and the people of Katsina State — particularly the Daura Emirate, Buhari’s hometown.
“In this moment of national mourning, I extend my deepest condolences to his beloved wife, Aisha — with whom I have remained in contact — his children, the entire Buhari family, and all who admired and loved him.
“My thoughts also go to the government and people of Katsina State, especially the Daura Emirate, who nurtured one of Nigeria’s most iconic sons,” he said.
Tinubu assured Nigerians that the late leader would be laid to rest in a manner befitting his towering legacy, adding that the government would soon unveil the full programme for the state funeral.
“We will honour his service with a funeral reflecting his sacrifices. We will reflect on his legacy. And we will continue to draw inspiration from his life,” Tinubu said.
He concluded his tribute with prayers for eternal peace for the late President:
“May Allah forgive his shortcomings and grant him Al-Jannah Firdaus. May his life continue to inspire generations of Nigerians to serve with courage, conviction, and selflessness.”
The passing of Buhari marks the end of an era for Nigeria. He is remembered as a disciplinarian and nationalist whose leadership — though controversial at times — left a deep imprint on the country’s political landscape.
