A host of prominent dignitaries on Monday gathered in Daura, Katsina State, to pay their last respects to former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari, who died in a London hospital on Sunday at the age of 82.
The solemn Jana’iza (Islamic burial) ceremony held in Buhari’s hometown drew top officials and personalities from across Nigeria and West Africa.
Leading the federal delegation was Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, who was accompanied by notable women, including Mrs. Fatimah Abbas, wife of the Speaker of the House of Representatives; Hajia Laila Barau, wife of the Deputy Senate President; Barr. Zarah Ribadu, wife of the National Security Adviser; and Mrs. Abu Ibrahim.
State governors were also in attendance, including Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal and Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who arrived with billionaire businessman Aliko Dangote.
From the international community, the Prime Minister of the Republic of Niger, Ali Lamine Zeine, was received in Katsina by Governor Dikko Umaru Radda. He is among several West African leaders expected at the burial.
Former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, who served alongside Buhari during his two terms, was also present, as was former Vice President and 2023 presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar, who reportedly returned early from an international engagement to attend the burial.
Security has been intensified across Katsina State as traditional rulers, high-ranking government officials, and foreign envoys continue to arrive for the funeral, which is being conducted in accordance with Islamic rites.
