Former President Muhammadu Buhari has been laid to rest in his hometown of Daura, Katsina State, marking the end of a significant era in Nigeria’s political history.
Buhari, who passed away on Sunday, July 13, 2025, in a London hospital after a long illness, was buried on Tuesday, July 15, at his private residence in Daura, in line with Islamic traditions.
His body arrived earlier in the day from the United Kingdom aboard a Nigerian Air Force jet and was received with full state honors at the Umaru Musa Yar’Adua International Airport in Katsina.
Former President Muhammadu Buhari's body was respectfully laid to rest at 5:50 PM. pic.twitter.com/1GeXAHBPd8
— Imran Muhammad (@Imranmuhdz) July 15, 2025
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who flew in from Abuja, touched down at 1:42 p.m. to personally receive the late leader’s remains. A ceremonial guard of honour was mounted ahead of the plane’s arrival at 1:51 p.m., reflecting the solemn significance of the moment.
Family members, political leaders, and dignitaries gathered quietly in Daura as the late president’s body was first taken to his residence for a private farewell with his immediate family. It was then transported to the central prayer ground in Daura for the Jana’iza (funeral prayer) before his final interment.
“It was a peaceful and dignified farewell,” a family member told reporters. “We’re grateful he returned home and was buried according to his wishes.”
Security around Daura was visibly tight, as thousands of residents turned out to pay their last respects in silence. The mood was somber as traditional rulers, senior government officials, military officers, and close allies of the late president gathered for the burial ceremony.
In a brief tribute at the airport, President Tinubu described Buhari as “a patriot who loved Nigeria till his last breath.”
Buhari served as Nigeria’s President from 2015 to 2023, after a prior stint as military Head of State from 1983 to 1985. He is survived by his wife, children, grandchildren, and an enduring legacy that continues to spark debate and reflection across the country and beyond.
