President Bola Tinubu arrived at Katsina Airport at approximately 1:45 p.m. WAT on Tuesday to personally receive the remains of former President Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away in a London hospital on Sunday at the age of 82.

The former president’s body is expected to arrive this afternoon aboard a Nigerian Air Force aircraft from London, accompanied by Vice President Kashim Shettima, for a state burial in his hometown of Daura, Katsina State.

The nation is in mourning following Buhari’s death, which has prompted an outpouring of tributes from across Nigeria and the international community.

President Tinubu, leading a high-level federal delegation, will join dignitaries, including 25 members of the Federal Executive Council (FEC), former heads of state, and international leaders, to honor the late statesman.

The burial, scheduled for 2:00 p.m. in Daura, will follow Islamic rites, with the Jana’iza (funeral prayer) and interment taking place at Buhari’s private residence.

Former President Buhari, who served as Nigeria’s military head of state from 1983 to 1985 and as a democratically elected president from 2015 to 2023, was described by President Tinubu as “a patriot, a soldier, and a statesman” whose legacy is defined by “duty, honor, and a deep commitment to the unity and progress of our nation.”

Buhari’s austere lifestyle, anti-corruption stance, and dedication to public service made him a towering figure in Nigeria’s political landscape for over four decades.

The Federal Government has declared a seven-day national mourning period, starting Sunday, July 13, with national flags flying at half-mast across the country.

Tuesday, July 15, has been designated a public holiday to allow Nigerians to reflect on Buhari’s contributions.

Condolence registers have been opened at all federal ministries, departments, and agencies, as well as at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre in Abuja and Nigerian embassies worldwide.

The burial is being coordinated by an Inter-Ministerial Committee, chaired by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, in collaboration with the Katsina State Government and the Buhari family.

Governor Dikko Umaru Radda of Katsina State confirmed the funeral arrangements, noting that preparations, including the digging of a grave at Buhari’s Daura residence, are complete.

Security has been heightened in Daura, with personnel from the Department of State Services (DSS), Nigerian Army, Police, and Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) deployed to ensure a smooth ceremony.

Upon arrival at Katsina Airport, a brief military ceremony will precede the procession to Daura, approximately 80 kilometers away, where the final rites will take place.

The event is expected to draw a significant gathering of Nigeria’s political and military elite, including former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi, and other prominent figures. International dignitaries, particularly from West Africa, have also indicated their intention to attend, with condolence messages pouring in from heads of state worldwide, reflecting Buhari’s global stature.

Tributes have highlighted Buhari’s humility, discipline, and moral leadership.

Former President Goodluck Jonathan, whom Buhari defeated in the 2015 election, described him as “selfless in his commitment to duty and served the country with character and a deep sense of patriotism.”

Former military ruler General Ibrahim Babangida, who overthrew Buhari in 1985, praised him as a “moral compass” and an “example of modesty in public life.”

Katsina State Governor Radda, speaking on behalf of the state, expressed profound grief, calling Buhari a “national icon” whose legacy will endure. The Northwest Governors Forum has also declared Tuesday a public holiday across its seven states to honor the late leader.

Vice President Shettima, accompanied by Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila and other senior officials, had been in London to finalize documentation and logistics for the repatriation of Buhari’s remains.

The body departed London early Tuesday morning, with the Nigerian Air Force ensuring a dignified transfer to Katsina.