Former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away on July 13 at the age of 82 in London, will be laid to rest on Tuesday, July 15, in his hometown of Daura in Katsina State. Buhari died following a prolonged illness while receiving treatment at a private clinic in the United Kingdom. His remains are scheduled to arrive in Nigeria on Tuesday morning, with burial ceremonies expected to begin by 2 p.m. local time.
The burial arrangements were confirmed by Katsina State Governor Dikko Umaru Radda after consultations with the late president's family. Nigerian Vice President Kashim Shettima and other top government officials traveled to London to facilitate the repatriation of Buhari’s body.
Buhari’s death has drawn condolences and reflections from both national and international leaders. President Bola Tinubu declared a seven-day period of national mourning and ordered flags to be flown at half-mast throughout the country. In a statement, Tinubu described Buhari as a patriot, a soldier, and a statesman who served Nigeria with dedication. Former military ruler Ibrahim Babangida, who had a complex relationship with Buhari, also paid tribute, calling him a spiritual and humble leader.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences, highlighting Buhari’s efforts in strengthening India-Nigeria bilateral ties.
Buhari, who first ruled Nigeria as a military leader from 1983 to 1985, made a historic return to power as a democratically elected president in 2015 by defeating incumbent Goodluck Jonathan. He was re-elected in 2019 and served until 2023. During his presidency, Buhari was known for his anti-corruption campaign and his simple personal lifestyle, which earned him strong support in the Muslim-majority northern Nigeria.
However, his leadership also drew criticism for delays in governance, economic stagnation, and security failures. He was nicknamed "Baba Go Slow" for his slow pace in decision-making, including a six-month delay in appointing his cabinet in 2015. Persistent challenges such as Boko Haram insurgency, kidnappings, and inflation marked his tenure. Buhari was also criticized for his frequent medical trips abroad and his government’s harsh response to protests, notably the crackdown on the #EndSARS movement in 2020.
As Nigeria prepares for Buhari’s final farewell, the nation reflects on the legacy of a leader who left behind a mixed record of public admiration and policy criticism. The funeral in Daura is expected to be attended by national dignitaries, regional leaders, and international representatives, marking the end of an era in Nigeria’s political history.