In a solemn ceremony set for Tuesday, President Bola Tinubu will receive the remains of former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari in Katsina State. This announcement was made by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, during a media briefing held in Abuja on Monday.
The late former president passed away on Sunday in a London hospital, and his body is expected to arrive in Nigeria by midday Tuesday. Idris confirmed that upon arrival, President Tinubu will personally oversee the reception of Buhari’s remains.
Following a military ceremony at Katsina airport, the body will be taken to Daura, Buhari’s hometown, where the funeral prayer will be conducted. The interment will take place at his residence thereafter.
Vice President Kashim Shettima is currently in London, heading a delegation tasked with managing the final arrangements for the repatriation.
In line with the national mourning, condolence registers will be opened across all federal institutions and Nigerian diplomatic missions worldwide. A register will also be available at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre in Abuja.
Idris emphasized the international recognition of Buhari’s legacy, stating, “The condolences coming in from Heads of State and Governments across the globe are a testament to the global stature and legacy of President Muhammadu Buhari.”
To coordinate the funeral proceedings, an Inter-Ministerial Committee chaired by Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, has been set up. This committee will work alongside the Katsina State Government and the Buhari family.
Additionally, 25 Federal Executive Council members have been instructed to attend the burial and remain for the Third-Day prayers in Daura.