Victor EzejaFormer President Muhammadu Buhari will be buried on Tuesday, July 15, in his hometown of Daura, Katsina State, according to Islamic rites, officials have confirmed.
Katsina State deputy governor Lawal Jobe gave the confirmation in a media chat on Monday, against earlier reports that the burial would take place on Monday.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelThe update was also confirmed by former Communications Minister Isa Ali Pantami, who posted on his official X (previously Twitter) account on Monday.
Pantami said the ex-president’s body will be conveyed from London to arrive at Katsina airport on Tuesday morning, while the interment will likely take place around 2 pm.
“For those inquiring about the funeral prayer for the former President, Baba Buhari, I have received confirmation that the President’s remains will depart London at 6 a.m. tomorrow, Tuesday, and arrive at Katsina airport around 12 noon.
“Therefore, the funeral will likely take place from 2 p.m. tomorrow. May Allah grant him a place in Jannatul Firdaus alongside our departed parents, family members, and loved ones,” the former minister stated via his X account.
Aged 82, the immediate past president died on Sunday afternoon at a clinic in London.
President Bola Tinubu on Sunday sent a delegation of senior government officials led by Vice President Kashim Shettima, and Chief of Staff to the President, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, to London on Sunday, to arrange the process of bringing home the body of the late ex-president
The delegation was received in London by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Yusuf Tuggar and Borno State Governor, Prof Babagana Zulum.
“The Vice President proceeded to London on the directive of President @officialABAT, following the passing of former President
@MBuhari. The Vice President will accompany former President @MBuhari’s body to Nigeria for burial in Daura, Katsina State,” Shettima wrote via his X account on Monday morning.
The Vice President described Buhari as a man who fought for Nigeria’s stability with uncommon courage both as a military officer on the battlefield and as a political leader.
Tinubu also declared seven days of National mourning in honour of Buhari. He also directed that national flags should fly at half mast for the seven days of mourning.
Meanwhile, the Federal Government has declared that Tuesday, July 15, 2025, will be observed as a public holiday to honour the memory of Buhari.
Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, made the declaration on behalf of the Federal Government, following the approval of President Tinubu.
The Minister stated that the holiday is a mark of respect for the late President’s service to the nation, his contributions to Nigeria’s democratic journey, and his enduring legacy in governance and national development.
“President Muhammadu Buhari served Nigeria with dedication, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to the unity and progress of our great nation. This public holiday provides an opportunity for all Nigerians to reflect on his life, leadership, and the values he upheld,” the Minister stated.
He urged citizens to use the day to honor the late President’s memory by promoting peace, patriotism, and national unity, in keeping with his vision of a prosperous and united Nigeria.
Buhari’s demise has triggered an outpouring of tributes from leaders across the globe.
Victor Ezeja is a passionate journalist with seven years of experience writing on economy, politics and energy. He holds a Master's degree in Mass Communication.
