A Nation Mourns: Honoring the Legacy of Former President Muhammadu Buhari
Nigeria is preparing to bid farewell to its former President, Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away on Sunday, July 13, 2025, at the age of 82. Buhari’s legacy is a complex tapestry woven with threads of military rule, democratic leadership, and unwavering dedication to his nation. To honor his life and service, President Bola Tinubu has approved a series of national mourning activities, culminating in a state funeral. These events will provide a platform for Nigerians from all walks of life to reflect on Buhari’s impact on the nation’s trajectory and pay their respects to a leader who held the highest office both through military appointment and democratic election.
A central element of the national mourning activities is an expanded special session of the Federal Executive Council (FEC) scheduled for Thursday, July 17, 2025, at 5:00 pm. This gathering, taking place at the Council Chambers of the Presidential Villa in Abuja, will transcend the usual confines of an FEC meeting. It will bring together key figures from across the branches of government, symbolizing the nation’s unity in remembrance. Attendees will include the leadership of the National Assembly, representatives of the Judiciary, members of the late President’s family, and of course, members of the Federal Executive Council themselves. This assembly underscores the profound significance of Buhari’s role in Nigeria’s political landscape and provides a forum for collective reflection on his contributions to the nation’s development.
Preceding the special FEC session, a Third Day prayer will be held at Buhari’s residence in Daura, Katsina State. This deeply personal and spiritual gathering will allow family, friends, and close associates to offer prayers and condolences. Vice President Kashim Shetima will lead a delegation of the Federal Government, including cabinet ministers, to Daura for this solemn observance. The presence of high-ranking government officials at the Third Day prayer underscores the respect and reverence with which Buhari is held within the political sphere, even beyond the confines of Abuja.
The national mourning activities extend beyond the political realm, embracing the spiritual diversity of Nigeria. Interfaith prayer sessions have been scheduled to honor Buhari’s memory and to offer solace to a grieving nation. A special prayer session will be held at the National Mosque in Abuja on Friday, July 18, 2025. This gathering will provide an opportunity for the Muslim community to come together in prayer and reflection, honoring Buhari’s faith and his impact on the nation. Following this, a special church service will be conducted on Sunday, July 20, 2025, offering a similar opportunity for the Christian community to gather and commemorate Buhari’s life and legacy. These interfaith events signify the unifying power of mourning and the shared sense of loss felt across religious divides.
Muhammadu Buhari’s life and career were deeply intertwined with the trajectory of Nigeria. His initial ascent to power came in 1983 through a military coup, marking a period of military rule that lasted until 1985. Decades later, he returned to the political forefront, successfully contesting and winning the presidential election in 2015. He served as Nigeria’s democratically elected President until 2023, leaving an undeniable mark on the nation’s political landscape. His tenure was marked by efforts to combat corruption, enhance security, and improve the nation’s economic standing.
The national mourning activities provide a moment for Nigerians to reflect on the complexities of Buhari’s legacy. His time as military head of state and his subsequent democratic presidency represent distinct chapters in Nigeria’s history, each with its own set of challenges and accomplishments. The planned events, ranging from the intimate Third Day prayer in Daura to the grand assembly of the expanded FEC meeting in Abuja, offer a multi-faceted approach to commemorating a life that was both deeply personal and profoundly public.
As Nigeria navigates the period of mourning and prepares for the final farewell to its former leader, the nation stands united in remembrance. The scheduled events offer a platform for reflection, prayer, and collective grieving. The tributes and condolences pouring in from across the globe underscore the significance of Buhari’s role on the international stage and the impact he had on Nigeria’s relationships with the world. The coming days will serve as a testament to the enduring legacy of Muhammadu Buhari, a figure who shaped the course of Nigerian history through both military and democratic leadership.
