All is now set for the final journey of former President Muhammadu Buhari’s, remains will be laid to rest today at 2pm in Daura, Katsina State.

This comes as President Bola Tinubu approved the constitution of an inter-ministerial committee to oversee the planning and coordination of a befitting state burial for the late elder statesman, who died on Sunday in London.

Announcing the burial plans, Katsina State governor, Dikko Radda, said the arrangement was finalised after due consultation with the family and close associates of the deceased in London.

The governor said at a briefing that the remains of the former President would arrive Katsina by noon today, with the burial scheduled for 2pm in Daura, the hometown of the late leader.

Radda expressed deep condolences on behalf of himself, the Katsina State Government and the people of the state, to the Buhari family and all Nigerians mourning the loss of a national icon.

Earlier on Monday, Vice President Kashim Shettima and the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, had arrived in London to receive Buhari’s body. The Nigerian delegation was welcomed by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar; and Borno State governor, Babagana Zulum; among others.

Meanwhile, heightened security presence enveloped Daura and other parts of Katsina State on Monday, as residents prepared to receive the late president’s remains.

Mourners speech

Mourners have continued to flock Buhari’s residence in Daura. Friends, neighbours, family members and associates were seen in a sorrowful mood, paying their last respects.

One of Buhari’s friends, Sulaiman Yarin-Katsina, said the late president’s unwavering simplicity made him remain deeply connected to his community throughout his life.

A close neighbour, Alhaji Lawal Nalado, said, Buhari was a leader who never allowed power to change his lifestyle or attitude towards those around him.

Nalado said Buhari was a humble and disciplined man, even before he rose to national prominence.

“He valued time, upheld daily prayers, and maintained respectful relationships with people of all ages. Buhari will be remembered for his generosity, particularly during Sallah and other festive periods.

During every Sallah celebration, he distributes money, food items, rams and other essential commodities to the less privileged. He never got tired of extending a helping hand to those in need,” Nalado added.

FG declares holiday

In furtherance of the seven-day national mourning earlier declared by President Tinubu, the Federal Government yesterday declared a public holiday in honour of the late President.

This was contained in a statement by the Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, through the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Dr Magdalene Ajani, describing the holiday as a mark of respect for Buhari’s selfless service to the nation, his contribution to Nigeria’s democratic journey and enduring legacy.

“President Muhammadu Buhari served Nigeria with dedication, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to the unity and progress of our great nation. This public holiday provides an opportunity for all Nigerians to reflect on his life, leadership, and the values he upheld,” the minister said.

He urged Nigerians to use the day to honour Buhari’s memory by promoting peace, patriotism and national cohesion, in line with his vision for a prosperous and united Nigeria.

“As earlier announced, the national flags are to fly at half mast for the seven days of mourning starting Sunday, July 13, 2025.

The Federal Government extends its deepest condolences to the family of the late President, the people of Katsina State, and all Nigerians, while praying for the peaceful repose of his soul”, the statement added.

Tinubu set up committee

Meanwhile, President Tinubu has approved the establishment of an inter-ministerial committee chaired by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, to coordinate Buhari’s state burial.

According to a statement issued yesterday by Segun Imohiosen, Director of Information and Public Relations, members of the committee include the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike; Ministers of Finance, Budget and Economic Planning; Defence; Information and National Orientation; Works; Interior; Housing and Urban Development; State for Health and Social Welfare; and Culture and Creative Economy.

Others include the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Political and Other Matters; the Inspector-General of Police; Director-General, Department of State Services; and the Chief of Defence Staff.

Imohiosen added that the Office of the Permanent Secretary, General Services Office (GSO), will serve as the committee’s secretariat.

He further announced that condolence registers would be opened across all ministries, departments, and agencies for members of the public to pay tribute to the late President.

“In honour of the late Muhammadu Buhari, President Tinubu has also directed all ministries, departments and agencies to open condolence registers at the entrance of their respective offices for the public to pay their respects to the late elder statesman.

“Additionally, a central condolence register for the diplomatic community and the general public will be opened at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre, Abuja. Further briefings will follow as the days unfold,” the statement read.

It would be recalled that governors of the North-West zone and that of Yobe State, Mai Mala Buni, had also declared today a work-free day in honour of the former President.