The passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari has prompted a swift and organized response from the Nigerian government, led by President Bola Tinubu. To ensure a dignified and befitting farewell, President Tinubu has established an Inter-Ministerial Committee to oversee the planning and execution of a state funeral for the deceased leader. This committee, chaired by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, comprises a diverse array of high-ranking officials, including key ministers and top security personnel. This demonstrates the significance of the event and the government’s commitment to honoring Buhari’s legacy. The committee’s mandate is to coordinate all aspects of the state funeral, ensuring a seamless and respectful tribute to the former president.
The composition of the Inter-Ministerial Committee reflects the multifaceted nature of the task at hand. It includes representatives from crucial ministries such as Finance, Budget and Economic Planning, Defence, Information and National Orientation, Works, Interior, FCT, Housing and Urban Development, Health and Social Welfare, and Culture and Creative Economy. These ministries will play vital roles in managing the logistical, financial, security, and cultural aspects of the funeral arrangements. The inclusion of top security officials, including the National Security Adviser, Inspector General of Police, Director-General of the Department of State Services, and Chief of Defence Staff, underscores the importance of maintaining security and order during this period of national mourning.
Furthermore, the committee includes the Special Adviser to the President on Policy and Coordination and the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Political and Other Matters, ensuring close alignment with the president’s office and facilitating effective communication and decision-making. The Office of the Permanent Secretary, General Services Office (GSO), will serve as the secretariat for the committee, providing administrative support and ensuring efficient coordination among the various stakeholders involved in the planning process. This structured approach demonstrates the government’s commitment to a well-organized and respectful state funeral.
In addition to the formation of the committee, President Tinubu has directed all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to open condolence registers at their respective offices. This initiative allows members of the public to express their condolences and pay their respects to the late former president. This gesture acknowledges the impact of Buhari’s presidency on the nation and provides a platform for citizens to share their sentiments and memories. The condolence registers serve as a tangible expression of national mourning and provide an opportunity for collective reflection on Buhari’s life and legacy.
To further facilitate the expression of condolences, a central condolence register will be available at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre in Abuja. This central register is specifically designated for the diplomatic community and the general public, providing a dedicated space for international representatives and citizens alike to offer their sympathies. This inclusive approach recognizes the global impact of Buhari’s presidency and allows individuals from diverse backgrounds to participate in the period of national mourning.
The establishment of both localized and centralized condolence registers demonstrates the government’s commitment to inclusivity and accessibility. By providing multiple avenues for public expression, the government ensures that all who wish to pay their respects can do so conveniently. These initiatives reflect a deep understanding of the importance of collective mourning and the need to provide opportunities for citizens and the international community to share their grief and honor the memory of the late former president. The government’s proactive approach to organizing the state funeral and facilitating public expressions of condolences underscores the significance of this moment in Nigerian history and the nation’s desire to bid farewell to a prominent figure with dignity and respect.
