Live Updates From Former President Mummadu Buhari’s State Burial in Daura can be accessed below.

Nigeria is in mourning following the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away on Sunday, July 13, at the age of 82 after a prolonged illness in a London hospital. A former military ruler and two-term civilian president, Buhari was a central figure in Nigeria’s political history, leading the country through key transitions over four decades.

Today, the nation prepares to bid him a final farewell as his body returns from the United Kingdom to be laid to rest in his hometown of Daura, Katsina State. A high-powered delegation, security presence, and state-led burial plans reflect the significance of the moment.

Follow our LIVE UPDATES as the country says goodbye to a former Head of State, soldier, and statesman:

Buhari’s Body Departs London
The remains of former President Muhammadu Buhari have left London aboard a Nigerian Air Force (NAF) aircraft. Presidential spokesperson Garba Shehu confirmed the body departed at 7:48 am and is expected to arrive in Nigeria after a seven-hour flight.

Daura Prepares for Final Rites
In Buhari’s hometown of Daura, Katsina State, preparations are in full swing. A grave has been dug at his private residence, where he will be buried according to Islamic rites. Security has been beefed up around the compound.

Tight Security Around Buhari’s Residence
Personnel from the Department of State Services (DSS), Nigerian Army, Police, and NSCDC have taken up positions at key entry points to Buhari’s home. Only family members and authorized personnel are being granted access.

Federal Government Declares Public Holiday
To honour the late statesman, the Federal Government has declared a national public holiday. Flags are flying at half-mast across government buildings, and condolence registers have been opened in Abuja and Katsina.

Tinubu Sends Delegation to London
President Bola Tinubu has dispatched a high-level delegation to London to accompany the late president’s body back to Nigeria. The team is led by Vice President Kashim Shettima and includes Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila, Foreign Minister Yusuf Tuggar, Borno Governor Babagana Zulum, and Deputy Chief of Staff Ibrahim Hadejia.

Inter-Ministerial Burial Committee Activated
An inter-ministerial committee headed by Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, has been constituted to oversee the state burial in collaboration with the Katsina State Government and the Buhari family.

Military Aircraft En Route to Katsina
The NAF aircraft carrying Buhari’s remains is expected to land at the Umaru Musa Yar’Adua Airport, Katsina, by late afternoon. President Tinubu is scheduled to receive the body personally upon arrival.

Prayers to Hold at Daura Helipad
Sources say the Janazah (Islamic funeral prayer) for the former president will take place at the Daura helipad shortly after the arrival of the body, before internment at his private residence.

Massive Turnout Expected in Daura
Crowds have begun gathering in Daura to pay their last respects. Local leaders, political figures, religious clerics, and citizens are expected to attend the burial.

Watch Live Video From the Burial Scene