Korede Abdullah in Lagos
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the constitution of an Inter-Ministerial Committee to organise a state burial for Nigeria’s former President Muhammadu Buhari.
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has approved the constitution of an Inter-Ministerial Committee for the State Funeral of former President Muhammadu Buhari,” the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation announced on Monday.
According to the statement signed by Director of Information and Public Relations, Segun Imohiosen, the Committee will be chaired by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. George Akume, CON.
Other members include the Ministers of Finance, Budget and Economic Planning, Defence, Information and National Orientation, Works, Interior, Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Housing and Urban Development, and State for Health and Social Welfare, as well as the Ministers of Art, Culture and Creative Economy.
Also on the list are the National Security Adviser, Special Adviser to the President on Policy and Coordination, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Political and Other Matters, Inspector General of Police, Director-General of the DSS, and Chief of Defence Staff.
“President Tinubu has also directed all Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) to open condolence registers at the entrance of their respective offices,” the statement added.
A central condolence register for the diplomatic community and general public will be opened at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre in Abuja.
… Declares Tuesday Public Holiday to Honour Late Buhari
In the same vein, the Federal Government has declared Tuesday, July 15, a public holiday in honour of the late former President Muhammadu Buhari, as part of the ongoing seven days of national mourning earlier announced by President Bola Tinubu.
Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, announced the holiday in a statement signed by the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Dr. Magdalene Ajani.
“President Muhammadu Buhari served Nigeria with dedication, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to the unity and progress of our great nation. This public holiday provides an opportunity for all Nigerians to reflect on his life, leadership, and the values he upheld,” Dr. Tunji-Ojo said.
He urged citizens to use the day to honour Buhari’s memory by promoting peace, patriotism, and national cohesion, in line with his vision for a united Nigeria.
The statement further directed that national flags should continue to fly at half-mast during the mourning period, which runs from Sunday, July 13.
“The Federal Government extends its deepest condolences to the family of the late president, the people of Katsina State, and all Nigerians, while praying for the peaceful repose of his soul,” it added.
