In a solemn and extraordinary gesture of respect, the remains of former President Muhammadu Buhari were flown from the United Kingdom to Nigeria in the main cabin of a Nigerian Air Force (NAF) jet—rather than the cargo hold—after it was discovered that his presidential casket could not fit into the aircraft’s designated cargo space.
Sources close to the situation revealed that British airport authorities declined to permit any alterations to the aircraft or substitution with a larger plane, citing strict aviation safety regulations. Faced with limited options, the military team opted for a dignified solution.
The front section of the cabin was transformed into a temporary platform by folding down seats and extending tables to support the flag-draped casket, preserving the dignity of the late president’s final journey.
The aircraft touched down at Umaru Musa Yar’Adua International Airport, Katsina, at 1:55 p.m., where the casket was received by: President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, Former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo and others.A solemn military ceremony followed.
The late president’s body was carried by a specially selected nine-man elite pallbearer team, drawn from all three branches of the Armed Forces and coordinated by Maj. Gen. Mike Alechenu.
The pallbearers included: Maj. Gen. Mohammed Usman, Maj. Gen. Oluwafemi Williams, Maj. Gen. Shuaibu Nuhu, Rear Adm. Suleiman Dahun, Rear Adm. Jonathan Ajodo, Rear Adm. Samuel Ngatuwa, Air Vice Marshal Adeniyi Amesinlola, Air Vice Marshal Idi Sanni, and Air Vice Marshal Obinna Obiabaka.
The body was wheeled through a guard of honour of 102 uniformed officers as the hymn “God Be With You Till We Meet Again” echoed through the tarmac.
From there, the casket was transported in a military hearse, leading a one-hour convoy to Daura, Buhari’s hometown, where thousands lined the streets to witness the historic farewell.
The late president was interred with full military honours, including a 21-gun salute, Islamic funeral prayers, and final burial at his private residence.
