In a momentous event on July 15, 2025, President Bola Tinubu led a distinguished delegation to the hometown of former President Muhammadu Buhari in Daura to oversee the final rites and burial ceremony of the late leader. The solemn gathering reflected Nigeria’s collective homage to Buhari’s legacy as both a military Head of State and a democratically elected president.
Upon arrival at Umaru Musa Yar’Adua International Airport in Katsina, Tinubu personally received Buhari’s remains, which had been flown in from London where Buhari passed away on July 13. The flag-draped casket was met with a military honour guard and an occasion marked by dignified respect. National and international leaders, including Vice President Kashim Shettima, and foreign dignitaries such as Niger’s Prime Minister Ali Zeine and Guinea-Bissau’s President Umaru Sissoco Embaló, were visibly present.
The funeral proceedings included Islamic burial rites conducted under the guidance of the Chief Imam of Daura, Sheikh Salisu Rabiu. The presence of Nigeria’s top legislators and security chiefs, alongside leaders from the private sector and traditional institutions, symbolised the broad spectrum of Buhari’s influence and the unity his memory inspires.
The procession to Daura was accompanied by military pomp and heartfelt prayers, culminating in the interment at Buhari’s residence. Tributes from past ministers, like Sadiya Farouq and Pauline Tallen, underscored Buhari’s role as a paternal figure and embodiment of simplicity and integrity.
Amidst the outpouring of grief and reflection, President Tinubu’s leadership during this period has been pivotal in orchestrating the national response and honouring the deceased head of state with dignity and protocol befitting his stature. The entirety of the event reflects not just a farewell but a reaffirmation of national unity in remembering a complex and impactful leader.