The Federal Government has postponed the special Federal Executive Council (FEC) session, originally scheduled for Tuesday, July 15, to honour former President Muhammadu Buhari. This follows confirmation that his state funeral will take place in Daura, Katsina State, on the same day.

As part of the official mourning activities, the government has also declared Tuesday a public holiday to allow Nigerians to pay their respects and reflect on the life and legacy of the late statesman.

A statement from the Presidency noted that the Office of the Secretary will announce a new date for the special FEC session to the Government of the Federation (OSGF) after the conclusion of the funeral rites.

President Bola Tinubu had directed the convening of the special FEC meeting to formally pay tribute to the late former president’s “invaluable service, sacrifice, and steadfast commitment” to Nigeria.

The body of the late president is expected to arrive in Abuja from London by noon on Tuesday. It will then be flown to Daura, his hometown, for burial in accordance with Islamic rites.

Presidency officials have confirmed that security and protocol arrangements are in place to ensure a dignified and solemn reception.

Former President Buhari died on Sunday, July 13, at the age of 82, after a prolonged illness. He passed away at a private clinic in London where he had been receiving medical care.

In response, President Tinubu declared a seven-day period of national mourning and directed that all national flags be flown at half-mast across the country and in Nigerian missions abroad, as a mark of respect.

The President also sent a high-powered delegation to London, led by Vice President Kashim Shettima and Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, to commiserate with the Buhari family and oversee arrangements for the repatriation of the former leader’s remains.

They were joined by the Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Zulum; Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar; and Deputy Chief of Staff to the President, Senator Ibrahim Hadejia.

The coming days are expected to be filled with solemn national observances, with tributes pouring in from within and outside Nigeria in honour of the man who served as both military Head of State and later, democratically elected President.