Former President Buhari Passes at 82, Final Journey Home Underway
Former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari has died at the age of 82, following a long, undisclosed illness. He passed away on Sunday, July 13, 2025, at a hospital in London.
His death has sparked a wave of national mourning and state preparations for his burial in Daura, Katsina State—his hometown and the place he held closest.
Buhari’s leadership spanned decades and eras. First rising to power as military head of state between 1983 and 1985, he later returned to the helm as Nigeria’s democratically elected president from 2015 to 2023—making history as one of the rare figures to lead under both military and civilian governments.
In his honour, the Federal Government declared a national public holiday and put together an inter-ministerial committee to oversee the state burial. The committee, chaired by Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, is coordinating with the Katsina State Government and the Buhari family to ensure a dignified farewell.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu sent a delegation, led by Vice President Kashim Shettima and Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila, to London to bring the late leader home. Also on the delegation are Foreign Affairs Minister Yusuf Tuggar, Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum, and Deputy Chief of Staff Senator Ibrahim Hadejia.
The presidency confirmed that President Tinubu will be present at the Katsina airport to receive Buhari’s remains before the body is transported to Daura for Islamic burial rites.
As of Tuesday morning, Buhari’s body had left London aboard a Nigerian Air Force aircraft. Preparations are already in motion at his Daura residence, where his grave is being prepared for a private burial on the property.
Garba Shehu, Buhari’s former spokesperson, told reporters: “The body departed London at 7:48 a.m. and should arrive after approximately seven hours. The grave is being dug, and prayers may be held at the helipad.”
Security has been significantly increased around the Daura home, with personnel from the Department of State Services (DSS), Nigerian Army, Police, and Civil Defence Corps stationed throughout the area as part of final arrangements.
As Nigeria prepares to bid farewell, the late president’s legacy continues to stir reflection—on power, leadership, and the passage of time.
- The Federal Government’s delegation has landed at Katsina Airport to receive Buhari’s remains.
Women hold special prayers, Qur’anic recitation inside Buhari’s residence
- Setting up for Buhari’s burial has commenced
- First Lady Remi Tinubu Departing Abuja For Buhari’s Burial
- Dan Amanar Daura, Rotimi Amaechi, on his way to the burial.
- Some moments ago, one of the daughters of the late former President of Nigeria, Fatima, arrived at her father’s residence, where she was consoled while sobbing.
- The 15th Emir of Kano, Ado Bayero arrives At Buhari Residence
