A delegation from the Republic of Niger has arrived in Katsina State, Nigeria, to participate in the burial of former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari, who died on Sunday, July 13, 2025, in a London hospital after a prolonged illness. The specific nature of his illness has not been disclosed.
The delegation’s arrival is part of a broader turnout of regional leaders and dignitaries from across Nigeria and neighboring countries. The late president will be buried in his hometown of Daura, Katsina State, in accordance with Islamic rites. The funeral is scheduled for Tuesday afternoon.
Preparations for the burial have reached an advanced stage. The grave has already been prepared, and arrangements are in place for a dignified state funeral. The usually quiet town of Daura has seen increased activity as visitors continue to arrive to pay their final respects.
The influx of high-profile guests has led to full occupancy of hotels across Katsina metropolis. Top government officials, military leaders, political associates, and diplomats are among those present or expected.
Security has been significantly increased throughout Katsina State. Armoured vehicles, military personnel, secret service agents, and police officers have been deployed to key locations, including roads leading to Daura and around hotels housing VIP guests. Authorities are taking every precaution to ensure the safety of all attendees.
Among the top Nigerian dignitaries attending are First Lady Senator Remi Tinubu and Senate President Godswill Akpabio, who departed Abuja early Tuesday to participate in the burial ceremony.
Buhari’s body was flown from London aboard a Nigerian Air Force aircraft and arrived in Katsina on Tuesday morning. He was accompanied by Vice President Kashim Shettima, Chief of Staff to the President Femi Gbajabiamila, and several senior government officials.
The Federal Government declared Tuesday, July 15, 2025, a national public holiday to honor Buhari’s legacy and allow Nigerians to observe the state burial. Across the country, citizens are reflecting on the life and leadership of the former president.
Buhari, who was born in Daura, first came to power as Nigeria’s military ruler from January 1984 to August 1985. He returned to lead the country as a democratically elected president from 2015 to 2023. Known for his austere lifestyle and firm stance against corruption, Buhari was both respected and criticized for his leadership style and policies.
Although his body was initially scheduled to arrive in Nigeria on Monday, logistical delays caused a shift in the burial timetable. The remains ultimately arrived on Tuesday at noon, with the funeral ceremony set for 2:00 p.m. in Daura.
