President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed Vice President Kashim Shettima and his Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, to travel to the United Kingdom to accompany the body of former President Muhammadu Buhari back to Nigeria.
The directive follows the passing of President Buhari on Sunday in a London hospital. In a statement issued by Presidential Spokesperson Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu expressed his deep sorrow over the loss of his predecessor, describing him as a statesman whose contributions to Nigeria will be remembered for generations.
STATEHOUSE PRESS RELEASE
President Tinubu announces President Buhari’s passing, directs VP Shettima, Chief of staff Gbajabiamila to the UK to accompany body back home
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has announced the passing of his predecessor, President Muhammadu Buhari.… pic.twitter.com/wRSEQQAFAL
— Bayo Onanuga (@aonanuga1956) July 13, 2025
The Nigerian leader has also ordered flags to be flown at half-staff as a mark of respect for the departed leader.
President Buhari died on Sunday in London at about 4.30 pm, following a prolonged illness.
President Tinubu has spoken with Mrs. Aisha Buhari, the former president’s widow, and offered his deep condolences.
Former President Buhari was twice elected Nigeria’s president, in 2015 and 2019.
He also served as military head of state between January 1984 and August 1985.