The body of former President Muhammadu Buhari has departed London for Nigeria as preparations intensify for his state burial in Daura, Katsina State.
The late president’s remains were transported aboard a Nigerian Air Force aircraft and are expected to arrive in Katsina by midday on Tuesday.
Vice President Kashim Shettima, who is currently in the UK, is leading a federal delegation overseeing the final logistics and documentation for the repatriation.
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, confirmed on Monday that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will be present in Katsina to receive Buhari’s body. A brief military ceremony will be held at the airport before the remains are moved to Daura, where the Jana’iza (Islamic funeral prayer) and interment will take place at the former president’s residence.
As part of national mourning, President Tinubu has directed that condolence registers be opened across all ministries, government agencies, and Nigerian embassies and missions worldwide. An additional register has also been placed at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre in Abuja.
Idris also noted that condolence messages from world leaders have continued to arrive, highlighting Buhari’s impact on the global stage.
To ensure a dignified and coordinated burial, an inter-ministerial committee chaired by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, has been put in place.
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