The remains of former President Muhammadu Buhari were laid to rest on Tuesday in his hometown of Daura, Katsina State, during a solemn state burial attended by dignitaries from across Nigeria and beyond.
The burial, conducted according to Islamic rites, marked the end of an official day of mourning for the former leader, who served Nigeria as both a military Head of State and a democratically elected president. He passed away on Sunday, July 13, 2025, in London at the age of 82 after a prolonged illness.
Buhari’s body arrived earlier in Katsina aboard a Nigerian Air Force aircraft, accompanied by Vice President Kashim Shettima and senior government officials. From the Umaru Musa Yar’Adua International Airport, the casket—draped in the Nigerian flag—was flown by helicopter to Daura, where thousands lined the streets for a final farewell.
The funeral prayer was led by the Chief Imam of Katsina at 5:50 p.m., followed by interment at the late president’s private residence. In a symbolic gesture of honour, Army Generals and Service Chiefs served as pallbearers, carrying Buhari’s remains to the gravesite, where a 21-gun salute was performed as a final tribute from the Armed Forces.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who had earlier received the remains in Katsina, joined other prominent figures—including state governors, cabinet members, and former heads of state—for the burial ceremony in Daura.
The Federal Government had declared Tuesday, July 15, a public holiday to honour the late president, allowing citizens—particularly in the North-West—to observe the historic moment.
In Daura, a deep sense of loss and quiet reverence pervaded the air. Thousands of residents and mourners gathered, paying tribute to a leader many described as humble, disciplined, and committed to national service.
“He was humble and disciplined till the end. For over 50 years, we lived peacefully together here in Daura,” said Ismaila Ibrahim, a longtime neighbour.
Tributes have continued to pour in from world leaders, political figures, and everyday Nigerians, hailing Buhari as a patriot, a man of integrity, and a statesman who left a lasting impact on the country.
As prayers were offered and the final clods of earth sealed his resting place, the nation collectively mourned the end of an era.
