Former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari was finally laid to rest on Tuesday evening at his private residence in Daura, Katsina State, amid a heavy outpouring of emotion, national mourning, and tributes from across Africa.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima led a high-powered federal delegation to pay their last respects to the late leader, who died on Sunday, July 13, 2025, in a London hospital at the age of 82.
The solemn ceremony drew dignitaries from across the continent, including Chadian President Mahamat Idriss Déby, President Umaro Sissoco Embaló of Guinea-Bissau, and Niger Republic’s Prime Minister Ali Lamine Zeine. They joined thousands of mourners, including traditional rulers, political associates, top government officials, and well-wishers.
Also in attendance were Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, serving and former state governors, ministers, lawmakers, and members of the diplomatic corps.
The funeral prayer (Janazah), held at the helipad area of Daura, was led by the Chief Imam of Daura, Sheikh Salisu Rabiu, in accordance with Islamic rites.
Buhari’s remains arrived in Katsina around 2:00 p.m. aboard a presidential aircraft and were moved by road to Daura at about 3:40 p.m. A ceremonial 21-gun salute was fired between 5:32 p.m. and 5:35 p.m. before he was finally interred at approximately 6:00 p.m.
The late President, who ruled Nigeria from 2015 to 2023, was remembered as a “disciplined and committed patriot” by President Tinubu, who praised Buhari’s unwavering dedication to Nigeria’s unity and security.
Security was tight in Daura throughout the day, with both military and police personnel deployed across key points to ensure a peaceful funeral.
As the nation mourns, tributes continue to pour in for the man who, despite controversy, left a lasting imprint on Nigeria’s political and military history.
