The remains of former President Muhammadu Buhari departed London for Daura, Katsina State, on Tuesday morning in preparation for a state burial. The body was transported on a Nigerian Air Force aircraft.
Vice President Kashim Shettima is leading a high-level delegation from the Federal Government to complete the documentation and logistical arrangements for repatriating the former president’s body.
On Monday, the federal government announced that President Bola Tinubu would welcome the remains in Katsina before the final burial in Daura, Katsina State. This information was provided by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, during a press conference in Abuja.
Idris stated that the body of the former president, who passed away on Sunday in a London hospital, is expected to arrive in Nigeria by noon on Tuesday.
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, will personally receive the remains of the former President in Katsina. Upon arrival, a brief military ceremony will take place at the airport before the body is transported to Daura. The Jana’iza (funeral prayer) will occur afterwards, followed by burial at the late President’s home,” Idris explained.
The minister indicated that, as part of the national mourning process, Tinubu has ordered the opening of condolence registers at all Federal Ministries, Departments, Agencies, and Nigerian embassies abroad. Another register will also be available at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre in Abuja.
Idris noted that condolences have been pouring in from global leaders, highlighting the international stature and legacy of President Muhammadu Buhari.
To ensure a “dignified and well-coordinated programme,” the President has set up an Inter-Ministerial Committee led by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, which will collaborate with the Katsina State Government and the Buhari family.
The minister also revealed that 25 members of the Federal Executive Council have been instructed to travel to Katsina for the burial rites and to remain in Daura for the Third-Day prayers scheduled for Wednesday.
