A Nigerian Air Force aircraft carrying the remains of former President Muhammadu Buhari landed at Umaru Musa Yar’adua International Airport in Katsina at 1:53 p.m. WAT on Tuesday, marking the start of a solemn farewell for one of Nigeria’s most influential leaders.

Vice President Kashim Shettima, accompanied by Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila, escorted the body from London, where Buhari passed away on Sunday, July 13, 2025, at the age of 82, following a prolonged illness.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who arrived at the airport at 1:45 p.m., led a high-level federal delegation to receive the remains.

The delegation included 25 members of the Federal Executive Council, former heads of state, and Katsina State officials, including Governor Dikko Umaru Radda.

A brief but poignant military ceremony was held on the tarmac, with full honours rendered to the late president, who served as Nigeria’s military head of state from 1983 to 1985 and as its democratically elected president from 2015 to 2023.

Nigeria is observing a seven-day national mourning period, declared by President Tinubu, with Tuesday, July 15, designated a public holiday to honor Buhari’s legacy.

National flags are flying at half-mast across the country, and condolence registers have been opened at federal institutions and Nigerian embassies worldwide.

The Federal Executive Council meeting scheduled for Tuesday was postponed to Friday, July 18, to allow cabinet members to attend the burial and remain in Daura for the Third-Day Fidau Prayer on Wednesday, July 16.

The National Assembly has also suspended legislative activities until Tuesday, July 22, in respect for the late leader.

Buhari’s death has elicited an outpouring of tributes from across Nigeria and beyond, reflecting his enduring impact as a statesman, soldier, and anti-corruption advocate.

President Tinubu described him as “a towering figure whose life of service and sacrifice inspired generations.”

Former President Goodluck Jonathan, defeated by Buhari in the historic 2015 election, praised his “unwavering commitment to Nigeria’s unity and progress.” Internationally, leaders from West Africa and beyond have expressed condolences, with several expected to attend the burial, underscoring Buhari’s regional and global influence.