DAURA, NIGERIA – Former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari has been laid to rest in his hometown of Daura, Katsina State, following a solemn ceremony that drew dignitaries from across the nation and beyond.
Mr. Buhari’s body was interred on Tuesday after funeral prayers led by Sheikh Salisu Rabiu, Imam of the Central Mosque in Daura, at approximately 17:50 local time (16:50 GMT). In a poignant display of military honours, Army Generals and Service Chiefs carried his remains to the graveside, followed by a 21-gun salute, a final tribute from the nation’s armed forces.
The revered statesman’s body had arrived in Katsina earlier on Tuesday, flown from London where he passed away on Sunday, July 13, 2025, at the age of 82 after a prolonged illness. A Nigerian Air Force aircraft conveyed his remains, accompanied by Vice President Kashim Shettima and other senior government officials, to the Umaru Musa Yar’Adua International Airport. From there, the national-draped casket was transported by helicopter to Daura, a journey witnessed by thousands of well-wishers lining the routes.
The funeral prayers and interment took place at Mr. Buhari’s private residence, attended by family members, close associates, and Islamic clerics. Among the prominent figures present were President Bola Tinubu, who personally received the remains in Katsina, along with several state governors, cabinet members, and former heads of state. The Federal Government had declared Tuesday a public holiday in honour of the late President, allowing Nigerians, particularly in the North-West, to observe the state burial. The atmosphere in Daura was one of deep sorrow, with thousands of residents and kinsmen thronging the ancient town to bid farewell to their illustrious son. Tributes have continued to pour in from world leaders and prominent Nigerians, remembering Buhari as a patriot and a man of integrity dedicated to national service.
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