Former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari Laid to Rest in Daura Amid Tears, Tributes & Military Honours
Nigeria stood still on July 15, 2025, as the remains of former President Muhammadu Buhari was laid to rest in his hometown in Daura, Katsina State. An emotional farewell that drew leaders from across the nation and beyond.
Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away in a London hospital on July 13, 2025, at the age of 82 after a prolonged illness, was given a hero’s send-off, marked by military parades, Islamic funeral rites, and heartfelt tributes.
A Journey Back Home: Buhari Returns to His Roots
The flag-draped casket of the former president arrived in Nigeria aboard the presidential aircraft, received by a delegation led by Vice President Kashim Shettima, alongside governors, military chiefs, and international envoys. From the Umaru Musa Yar’Adua International Airport in Katsina, Buhari’s body was transported to Daura under tight security as supporters lined the roads chanting “Sai Baba!”
Final Resting Place: Private Burial in Daura
Buhari was buried within the premises of his private residence in Daura in line with Islamic traditions, following Janazah (funeral prayers) led by the Chief Imam of Daura, Sheikh Salisu Rabiu.
The funeral witnessed an outpouring of emotion, with thousands of mourners both young and old, flooding the area, climbing trees and rooftops just to catch a glimpse of the ceremony. The modest burial site reflected Buhari’s austere and disciplined personality.
Dignitaries and National Mourning
Among the dignitaries present were:
- President Bola Tinubu
- Former Vice Presidents Yemi Osinbajo and Atiku Abubakar
- Several state governors
- Heads of military and security agencies
- Delegations from neighboring African nations
In honor of Buhari’s contributions, President Tinubu declared a seven-day national mourning, with all flags flying at half-mast. The burial day was also observed as a public holiday nationwide.
Tributes: A Nation Divided But Respectful
While many Nigerians remembered Buhari as a disciplined leader, anti-corruption crusader, and patriot, others recalled his administration’s struggles with economic downturns, rising insecurity, and human rights criticisms. Regardless of political leanings, his death rekindled conversations about leadership, governance, and legacy in Africa’s most populous nation.
Former UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed and global leaders including India’s PM Narendra Modi and Saudi King Salman sent their condolences, emphasizing Buhari’s significant footprint on the global stage.
Buhari’s Legacy: Military General to Civilian President
Buhari’s political journey remains remarkable:
- Former military head of state (1983-1985)
- Democratically elected President (2015-2023)
- Known for his spartan lifestyle, anti-corruption drive, and infrastructure projects
- Yet criticized for economic policies, insecurity, and long medical absences abroad.
His transition from military rule to democratic leadership remains a historic testament in Nigerian politics.
Final Salute
As Buhari’s body was lowered into the grave, a 21-gun salute echoed across Daura—a final military honor for a man who lived as both a soldier and a statesman.
Nigeria has indeed lost a towering figure, and whether loved or criticized, Muhammadu Buhari’s story remains etched in the annals of the nation’s history.
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