President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has officially directed that all national flags in Nigeria be flown at half‑staff for a period of seven days as a solemn tribute to his immediate predecessor, Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away on Sunday in London at the age of 82.
This directive was conveyed through Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, who confirmed Buhari’s death and shared President Tinubu’s emotional message to the nation. The announcement has evoked widespread reactions from Nigerians, who have expressed both grief and respect for the late former leader.
In his heartfelt statement, President Tinubu described the late Buhari as “a patriot, a soldier, a statesman,” emphasizing his lifelong dedication to Nigeria’s unity, stability, and development. Tinubu praised Buhari’s unwavering service to the country, from his years in the military to his leadership as a democratically elected president, noting that his sacrifices will never be forgotten.
“As a mark of deep respect and national mourning for our former leader and elder statesman, I have directed that all national flags be flown at half‑staff across the entire country for seven days starting today,” President Tinubu’s statement read in part. He urged all government institutions, agencies, and citizens to observe this gesture as a symbol of unity and collective reflection.
Furthermore, President Tinubu has called for an emergency Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting scheduled for Tuesday. This special session will be dedicated to paying tribute to Buhari’s memory and discussing arrangements for his state burial. The meeting is expected to bring together top government officials and dignitaries to honor the late president’s legacy.
The Nigerian government has also announced plans to accord Buhari full state honours, recognizing his pivotal role and significant contributions to the nation’s history. Details regarding the funeral proceedings and national events to commemorate his life are expected to be released in the coming days.
In mourning the passing of his predecessor, Tinubu extended his deepest condolences to the former First Lady, Aisha Buhari, and the entire Buhari family. He offered prayers for Allah’s forgiveness and mercy upon Buhari’s soul, asking that he be granted eternal rest and rewarded for his service to the nation.
Across the country, political leaders, traditional rulers, and citizens continue to share tributes, highlighting the enduring impact Buhari had on Nigeria’s political landscape and collective memory. The lowering of the national flag serves as a symbolic gesture of national solidarity and respect for a man who, despite controversies, left a profound mark on Nigeria’s journey.