A solemn motorcade escorting the remains of Nigeria’s former President, Muhammadu Buhari, has arrived in Daura, Katsina State, ahead of his final interment in accordance with Islamic rites. The convoy departed the Katsina Airport under tight security after the arrival of the presidential jet bearing the late statesman’s body from London.
The Nigerian Air Force jet touched down at exactly 2:00 pm local time on Monday, July 15, 2025, marking the end of a storied life that spanned decades of military and democratic service. The late President Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away on Sunday at the age of 82 in a private clinic in London, had been receiving treatment for an undisclosed illness.
His death sent shockwaves across Nigeria and beyond, prompting an outpouring of tributes from global leaders, African heads of state, and Nigerians across all walks of life.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was present at the tarmac to receive the body of his predecessor. Dressed in solemn attire and accompanied by key members of his administration, Tinubu stood in quiet reflection as the casket, draped in the Nigerian national flag, was lowered from the aircraft.
Vice President Kashim Shettima, Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila, and close members of the Buhari family were also aboard the jet that brought the remains home. Their presence underscored the significance of the moment and the nation’s collective grief.
A respected figure both in military and civilian governance, Muhammadu Buhari served Nigeria as a military Head of State from 1983 to 1985 and later returned as a democratically elected President, serving two full terms from 2015 to 2023. His legacy continues to divide opinion, but there is no doubt that he left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s political and economic landscape.
According to officials close to the family, Buhari will be buried later today at his private residence in Daura, his hometown, in a modest ceremony consistent with Islamic burial traditions. The rites will be conducted by prominent Islamic clerics in the region, with prayers offered for the repose of his soul.
Security has been heightened in and around Daura ahead of the interment. Roads have been cordoned off, and personnel from the Nigerian Army, Police, Civil Defence, and other agencies have been deployed to maintain order and manage the expected influx of sympathizers and dignitaries.
Already, early arrivals in Daura include state governors, traditional rulers, members of the National Assembly, and diplomatic representatives from several African and Middle Eastern countries. A number of former presidents and heads of government from across Africa are also expected to arrive for condolence visits in the coming days.
In a brief statement issued by the Presidency, President Tinubu paid tribute to Buhari’s patriotism and discipline, describing him as “a towering statesman whose contributions to Nigeria’s unity, security, and anti-corruption war will not be forgotten.”
“President Muhammadu Buhari served Nigeria with deep conviction and unwavering faith. His passing is a monumental loss for our nation. As we prepare to lay him to rest in Daura, we do so with deep respect and gratitude for his service,” the statement read.
Vice President Shettima, who was in London at the time of the former president’s passing, led the high-powered delegation back to Nigeria. Speaking briefly to journalists at the airport, Shettima said, “We mourn not just a former president, but a symbol of integrity in public service. President Buhari was a mentor, a leader, and a patriot.”
In London, news of Buhari’s death was confirmed by medical sources late on Sunday evening. It is understood that the late leader had been battling health complications in recent months, although his condition had been closely guarded by his family and inner circle.
Flags across all federal institutions in Nigeria were ordered to be flown at half-mast from Monday morning. A week of national mourning has also been declared, with all public ceremonies and political events suspended out of respect for the deceased leader.
The National Mosque in Abuja is expected to host a formal prayer session for the former president later this week, to be attended by top Muslim clerics, political figures, and foreign diplomats.
Buhari’s political journey, marked by military discipline and a focus on anti-corruption, saw him emerge as a popular figure among large segments of Nigeria’s northern electorate. He ran unsuccessfully for president in 2003, 2007, and 2011 before finally achieving victory in the 2015 election under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), defeating incumbent President Goodluck Jonathan.
His two-term presidency was characterized by aggressive campaigns against corruption, a restructured national identity card project, and efforts to reposition Nigeria’s economy through infrastructure investments. However, critics often pointed to challenges in security, press freedom, and economic inflation during his administration.
Buhari retired to Daura after handing over power to President Tinubu in May 2023. Since then, he had kept a low profile, occasionally appearing at public functions and issuing statements on national issues. His final public appearance was earlier this year during the commissioning of a federal road project in Katsina.
In Daura, residents lined the streets in quiet reverence as the motorcade made its way through the town. Many waved flags, offered silent prayers, and shared fond memories of their native son who rose to become the commander-in-chief of Africa’s most populous country.
One elderly resident, Alhaji Musa Abdullahi, speaking with Africa Live News, described Buhari as “a son of the soil whose legacy will live on through generations.” Another local, Hajara Garba, noted that “though opinions may differ about his politics, no one can deny that Buhari gave his life to Nigeria.”
As Nigeria prepares to bid farewell to one of its most consequential leaders, the world watches as the dusty roads of Daura once again write history—this time, not of power, but of passage and peace.
Reporting by Africa Live News
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