In a solemn and historic moment for Nigeria, Vice President Kashim Shettima arrived at Umaru Musa Yar’Adua International Airport, Katsina, at exactly 1:53 PM today, accompanying the remains of former President Muhammadu Buhari from London.
The late President Buhari, who passed away in the United Kingdom after a prolonged illness, is set to be buried in his hometown of Daura, Katsina State, in accordance with Islamic rites.
The vice president was received by top government officials, military officers, traditional rulers, and grieving citizens who gathered at the airport to pay their respects to the late national icon. Buhari’s body was transported in a Nigerian Air Force jet under heavy security escort.
Born on December 17, 1942, Muhammadu Buhari served as Nigeria’s military Head of State from 1983 to 1985, and later as a democratically elected President from 2015 to 2023, leaving behind a legacy of anti-corruption crusades, infrastructure development, and security reforms.
The Nigerian flag was flown at half-mast across government buildings nationwide, in line with a federal directive declaring Tuesday, July 15, 2025, a public holiday to honor the memory of the late statesman.
A state funeral is expected to be held in Daura on Wednesday, with dignitaries from across Africa and the international community expected to attend.
This moment marks the end of an era and the celebration of a man who dedicated more than five decades of his life to national service, both in and out of uniform.