Buhari’s remains leave London for burial in Daura, arrive Nigeria today

Summary

• Late former President Muhammadu Buhari’s body departs London on Nigerian Air Force jet
• Vice President Shettima leads delegation to oversee repatriation arrangements
• Arrival in Katsina slated for noon; Tinubu to receive remains personally
• Public holiday declared nationwide in Buhari’s honour

London, UK – The body of Nigeria’s late former President, Muhammadu Buhari, departed London earlier today, Tuesday, 15 July 2025, aboard a Nigerian Air Force aircraft. The Federal Government, led by Vice President Kashim Shettima, oversaw the final arrangements for the dignified repatriation of the former leader’s remains.

According to government sources, the body is expected to arrive in Katsina by noon, where President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will personally receive it at the Umaru Musa Yar’Adua Airport. A solemn military ceremony will be held to mark the arrival, in keeping with Buhari’s status as both a former civilian president and military ruler.

Following the brief rites at the airport, the body will be transported to his hometown of Daura for the Janaza, an Islamic funeral prayer, and final interment at his private residence.

The burial is expected to be attended by family, state officials, and dignitaries from across the country.

To honour the memory and service of the former Head of State, the Federal Government declared Tuesday, 15 July 2025, a public holiday nationwide. The decision is in line with the week-long period of national mourning announced earlier by President Tinubu, which includes flying the national flag at half-mast across all public buildings and institutions.