In an atmosphere heavy with emotion, Nigeria’s former President Muhammadu Buhari was buried on Tuesday at his private residence in Daura, his hometown in Katsina State. Family, political leaders and thousands of ordinary citizens gathered to bid farewell to a man they viewed as a symbol of discipline and integrity.
President Bola Tinubu led the mourners, joined by Vice-President Kashim Shettima, former Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo, Guinea-Bissau’s President Umaro Sissoco Embaló and Niger Republic’s Prime Minister Ali Lamine Zeine. Senior military officers, captains of industry, Islamic clerics and dignitaries from inside and outside Nigeria also paid their last respects.
Before the burial, a joint military team honoured the late leader with a solemn 21-gun salute. The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, delivered a tribute highlighting Buhari’s legacy as a “fine soldier” known for professionalism, honesty and selfless service.
As the body arrived in Daura, crowds lined the roads chanting prayers and invoking Allah’s mercy. Family members were given a few moments to see his remains and offer final prayers.
Buhari, who ruled Nigeria as a military head of state from 1984 to 1985, returned to power through the ballot box in 2015 and was re-elected in 2019. His time in office saw high-profile anti-corruption campaigns and major infrastructure projects, though it also faced criticism over security and economic struggles.
As he was laid to rest, many reflected on a life marked by personal austerity, resilience, and a belief in public service—qualities that, for many Nigerians, will remain part of his enduring legacy.
