Former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari was laid to rest on Tuesday in his hometown of Daura, Katsina State, in a solemn ceremony attended by dignitaries from across the country and beyond.
The burial, conducted in accordance with Islamic rites, marked the end of a period of national mourning for a man who served Nigeria as both a military ruler and a democratically elected president.
Buhari’s funeral prayer was led by Sheikh Salisu Rabiu, the Imam of Daura Central Mosque, at exactly 5:50 p.m. His body was then interred in his private residence in Daura, with top military officials—including Army Generals and Service Chiefs—carrying his remains and performing a ceremonial 21-gun salute in his honour.
The late president’s body had arrived in Katsina earlier in the day from London, where he died on Sunday, July 13, 2025, at the age of 82, after a prolonged illness. A Nigerian Air Force aircraft transported the remains, accompanied by Vice President Kashim Shettima and other senior officials, to the Umaru Musa Yar’Adua International Airport.
From there, a military helicopter flew the casket—draped in Nigeria’s national colours—to Daura. Thousands lined the streets as the cortege passed, many struggling to catch a final glimpse of the man who had long defined Nigeria’s political landscape.
The interment was attended by a close circle of family members, longtime associates, and Islamic clerics. Notably present was President Bola Tinubu, who received the body upon arrival and joined in paying final respects, alongside several state governors, federal ministers, and former heads of state.
In honour of the late president, the Federal Government declared Tuesday, July 15, 2025, a public holiday, allowing citizens—especially in the North-West—to partake in or witness the state funeral.
The atmosphere in Daura was one of quiet reverence and deep sorrow. Residents, relatives, and supporters had begun arriving in large numbers as early as Monday night. Despite a noticeable security presence, the town maintained a calm but mournful tone, with many shops open but business slowed in recognition of the moment.
Speaking from Daura, a longtime neighbour, Ismaila Ibrahim, reflected:
“He was humble and disciplined till the end. For over 50 years, we lived peacefully together here in Daura.”
Condolences and tributes have poured in from across Nigeria and the international community, with leaders describing Buhari as a patriot, a man of conviction, and a leader who gave his life to public service.
Within the family compound, emotions ran high as relatives received an endless stream of mourners. Quiet prayers were offered as the final handfuls of earth were placed over the grave of the man who had once led Africa’s most populous nation.
As night fell on Daura, Nigeria bid farewell to Muhammadu Buhari—a leader whose legacy, for better or worse, will remain deeply etched in the country’s history.
