Former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari was laid to rest on Tuesday, 15 July 2025, in his hometown of Daura, Katsina State, in a solemn ceremony that echoed across the nation. The burial, steeped in tradition and symbolism, marked the end of an era for one of Nigeria’s most enduring and polarizing figures.
The funeral rites, held shortly after the Asr (evening) prayer at 5:50 p.m., were conducted in accordance with Islamic customs and led by the Chief Imam of Katsina. Dignitaries, political leaders, and mourners from across the country gathered to pay their last respects to the former military ruler and two-term democratic president.
Earlier in the day, Buhari’s remains arrived at the Umaru Musa Yar’Adua International Airport aboard a Nigerian Air Force jet from London, where he passed away on Sunday, 13 July, at the age of 82, after a prolonged illness. Vice President Kashim Shettima and a high-ranking delegation of government officials accompanied the body.
Draped in the national colours, the casket was airlifted by helicopter to Daura, where thousands of residents lined the streets in silent tribute, many weeping and offering prayers. The atmosphere was one of reverence as chants and Qur’anic recitations echoed through the town.
In a powerful military homage, senior officers and service chiefs bore the casket to its final resting place, followed by a 21-gun salute, a solemn farewell to a former commander-in-chief who served the nation both in uniform and in civilian leadership.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who had declared a national public holiday in Buhari’s honor, personally received the late president’s remains at the airport. He later joined state governors, ministers, and two former Nigerian leaders for a brief yet emotional interment ceremony at Buhari’s private residence.
Daura, cloaked in mourning, stood still as locals, many holding Qur’ans gathered quietly under the scorching sun. For the people of the town, Buhari was more than a national figure; he was a neighbour, a father, and a familiar face whose loss was deeply personal.
Despite the heightened security presence, the town’s rhythm slowed only slightly. Streams of sympathizers continued to visit the Buhari family home into the night, offering condolences and prayers. Grieving relatives welcomed visitors with solemn grace.
Tributes poured in from around the world, with African leaders, global diplomats, and international organizations praising Buhari as a principled leader, a patriot, and a man of unshakable discipline. Though his legacy remains a subject of national debate, his contributions to Nigeria’s governance and security remain undeniable.
As the sun dipped behind the horizon and the final handfuls of earth were placed over the grave, Nigeria paused in collective reflection, only briefly, to honour a man who devoted much of his life to public service.
