Nigeria is preparing to accord former President Muhammadu Buhari a full state funeral, a befitting honor for a leader who served the nation both as a military head of state and a democratically elected president. Following his passing in London on July 13, 2025, at the age of 82, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's administration has swiftly moved to coordinate his return and final rites, in accordance with Islamic principles and national protocols .
Repatriation and Immediate Burial
In line with Islamic customs, which call for immediate burial, former President Buhari is expected to be interred as soon as his remains arrive in Nigeria . President Tinubu has directed Vice President Kashim Shettima to travel to the United Kingdom to accompany Buhari's body back to Nigeria . The repatriation is anticipated to occur swiftly, with reports indicating the body's return as early as Monday . Buhari will be buried in his hometown of Daura, Katsina State .
National Mourning and Protocols
To honor the departed leader, President Tinubu has declared seven days of national mourning, during which all national flags across the country will fly at half-mast . This period of mourning signifies the nation's collective grief and respect for Buhari's contributions.
In addition to the immediate burial, the Federal Government has outlined further arrangements to commemorate Buhari's legacy:
Emergency Federal Executive Council (FEC) Session: President Tinubu has summoned an emergency FEC session scheduled for Tuesday, July 15, 2025, in Abuja. This session will be dedicated to honoring Buhari and remembering his significant roles as a member and later leader of the FEC .
State Funeral: The federal government has confirmed its commitment to providing full state honors for Buhari, recognizing his "towering contributions" to the country . While specific details of the state funeral ceremonies are still emerging, they typically involve military honors, national tributes, and public viewing opportunities, though adapted to Islamic rites.
Tributes and Condolences
Since the announcement of his death, tributes have poured in from across Nigeria's political spectrum and from international leaders . President Tinubu has conveyed his deep condolences to Mrs. Aisha Buhari, the former President's widow, reaffirming the nation's support for the family .
Even those who were once political adversaries, such as former President Olusegun Obasanjo, have described Buhari as a patriot, colleague, and statesman, highlighting the unifying aspect of his passing despite previous differences .
As the nation awaits the return of former President Buhari's remains, further details regarding the full schedule of the state funeral, memorial events, and any public access arrangements are expected to be announced by the family and government officials . Nigerians are encouraged to observe the period of mourning with solemnity and reflection, as the country bids farewell to a figure who shaped its destiny for decades.
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