From Femi Mustapha, in Kaduna
The Northwest Governors Forum has declared Tuesday, July 15, 2025, a public holiday across all states in the region to honor the memory of former President Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away on Sunday in a hospital in the United Kingdom.
In a statement signed by the Forum’s Chairman and Governor of Katsina State, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, the governors expressed their shock and sorrow over the loss of the elder statesman.
“The Northwest Governors Forum received with shock and deep sorrow the news of the passing of our beloved former President, General Muhammadu Buhari, who breathed his last yesterday at a hospital in the United Kingdom,” Radda said. He described Buhari as a “father, leader, and the pride of the Northwest region,” adding that he lived a life characterized by “service, integrity, and sacrifice for the betterment of Nigeria.”
As a tribute, Radda announced the governors’ unanimous decision to observe Tuesday as a public holiday in all Northwest states. “This gesture reflects the deep reverence we hold for a man who dedicated his entire life to serving Nigeria and humanity,” he stated.
According to the announcement, the remains of the late former President will arrive in Katsina at approximately noon on Tuesday, with the burial ceremony scheduled for 2:00 PM.
“We call on all Nigerians to join us in prayers for the peaceful repose of his soul,” Radda urged. He also extended condolences on behalf of the Forum to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the immediate family of the deceased, the Government and people of Katsina State, and all Nigerians.
“May Allah (SWT) grant him Aljanah Firdaus and give his family, friends, and all Nigerians the strength to bear this irreparable loss,” the statement concluded.
