Nigeria’s political elite, military top brass, global dignitaries, and grieving citizens gathered in Daura, Katsina State, on Tuesday to pay final respects to former President Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away in a London hospital on Sunday, July 13.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, alongside Vice President Kashim Shettima, led the solemn procession as the late statesman’s remains arrived aboard the Presidential Aircraft, marking the final journey of one of Nigeria’s most enduring and influential leaders.
The body of the late President, draped in the Nigerian flag, was received at the Umaru Musa Yar’Adua International Airport in Katsina at 1:51 p.m., shortly after President Tinubu’s arrival. A guard of honour was inspected before the casket was wheeled out in a slow march by a joint team of military pallbearers. A solemn hymn, “God Be With You Till We Meet Again,” accompanied the procession.
The casket was subsequently transported to Daura for Islamic funeral rites, led by Sheikh Salisu Rabiu, the Chief Imam of Daura, before Buhari was laid to rest at his private residence at 5:50 p.m. Full military honours, including a 21-gun salute, were observed.
Notable attendees at the ceremony included former Presidents, Vice Presidents Yemi Osinbajo and Atiku Abubakar, National Assembly leaders, state governors, ministers, and diplomats. International figures such as President Umaru Sissoco Embaló of Guinea-Bissau, Niger Republic Prime Minister Ali Lamine Zeine, and former Niger President Issoufou Mahamadou also honoured the occasion.
Security chiefs and high-ranking military officials, including General Christopher Musa (Chief of Defence Staff), Lt. Gen Olufemi Oluyede (Army), and Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla (Navy), were present to oversee the ceremonial duties. Private sector giants Aliko Dangote, Sayyu Dantata, and Dahiru Mangal, as well as traditional rulers like the Emir of Daura, Umar Faruq, and Emir of Kano, Aminu Ado Bayero, joined thousands in paying their last respects.
The Nigerian Airspace Management Agency confirmed over 130 aircraft landings and departures within 48 hours, reflecting the scale of attendance.
Tributes flowed from former cabinet members and close associates. Dr. Rabi’atu Aliyu, former Minister of State for FCT, described Buhari as “a father to me, resilient, astute, and the most honest man I’ve ever known.”
Sadiya Farouq, who served as Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, expressed her grief: “We have truly lost a father, a leader, a patriot, and a nationalist. Baba gave people opportunities based on merit, not connection.”
Pauline Tallen, ex-Minister of Women Affairs, added: “He embodied patience, humility, and simplicity. Despite his power, he was never materialistic. His home reflected contentment and humility.”
Former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, shared his personal sorrow: “It’s a very personal loss. He was principled, disciplined, and contributed immensely to democracy.”
Dr. Aliyu Audu, a former aide to President Tinubu, described Buhari as “a bright star of Nigeria” who lived modestly and served the nation with integrity and deep commitment.
A week-long programme of tributes and condolence visits has been planned to honour Buhari’s legacy. The Presidential Committee is expected to continue its engagements with the family and other stakeholders.
