Former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari passed away in London on July 13, 2025, at the age of 82 after a prolonged illness . A state funeral was organized with his body flown back to Nigeria aboard a Nigerian Air Force aircraft, arriving in Katsina where it was received by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, and other dignitaries .
Following military honours — including a ceremonial guard of honour and a 21-gun salute — Buhari’s remains were transferred to his hometown of Daura, Katsina State, for Islamic funeral rites and burial in his courtyard on July 15 . The event was attended by a high-profile gathering: President Tinubu, Vice President Shettima, former leaders (Atiku Abubakar, Yemi Osinbajo), governors, foreign dignitaries (such as President Umaro Sissoco Embaló, Prime Minister Ali Lamine Zeine, ex‑President Issoufou Mahamadou), the Emir of Daura, and business leaders like Aliko Dangote .
Security was significantly heightened along key routes into Daura, maintaining calm as residents paid their respects . The funeral prayers were led by religious and military officials, and Buhari’s casket was draped in the Nigerian flag before interment beside his parents in line with Islamic customs .
President Tinubu declared a seven-day national mourning period, lowered flags to half-mast, and designated a public holiday to honour Buhari .
Buhari had served as Nigeria’s military ruler (1983–85), and later as democratically elected President (2015–2023). He was remembered for his austere lifestyle, anti-corruption stance, and influence, particularly in the Muslim north, though his presidency faced criticism over economic recession, insecurity, frequent health-related absences, and human rights concerns .
Credit: Africanews
