Vice President Kashim Shettima touched down in the United Kingdom early Monday morning to oversee the repatriation of former President Muhammadu Buhari’s remains to Nigeria. The late leader, who died on Sunday, July 13, 2025, after a prolonged undisclosed illness, will be buried in his hometown of Daura, Katsina State, later today in accordance with Islamic rites.
The Vice President was received at the hospital by Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuff Tuggar, in a solemn moment marking the start of Nigeria’s final tribute to its former Commander-in-Chief. Shettima’s trip, reportedly authorized by President Bola Tinubu, began shortly after midnight, signaling the urgency and national significance of the mission.
Presidential Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila and Borno State Governor Babagana Umara Zulum were also present to witness the momentous handover. Sources confirm that Shettima will accompany the body on the flight back to Nigeria, ensuring a state-led escort for one of the country’s most iconic and polarizing figures.
Buhari, who ruled Nigeria from 2015 to 2023, had quietly been receiving treatment in the UK for months, according to insiders close to his family. Despite his failing health, the news of his passing has sent shockwaves through the country, prompting seven days of national mourning as declared by President Tinubu on Sunday.
A state funeral is being prepared in Daura, where his body will be received by a federal delegation. The Nigerian Armed Forces, traditional rulers, and global dignitaries are expected to attend. Security has been heightened across Katsina State as crowds gather in anticipation of the late president’s return.
This marks a historic moment for Nigeria, not only because Buhari served two democratic terms and one military rule (1983–1985), but also because he remains the only Nigerian leader to have governed in both uniforms of military and civilian leadership. Love him or loathe him, his legacy is etched into the political fabric of modern Nigeria.
As preparations reach fever pitch for his burial today, the entire nation pauses to reflect on a man whose presence dominated national discourse for over four decades. The aircraft carrying his remains is expected to arrive in Nigeria this afternoon, after which funeral prayers and burial will follow immediately in line with Islamic custom.
