Vice President Kashim Shettima has arrived in the United Kingdom to oversee the repatriation of former President Muhammadu Buhari's remains to Nigeria for burial according to Islamic rites.
Stanley Nkwocha, the Vice President's media aide, confirmed early Monday morning that Shettima was received at the hospital by Ambassador Yusuff Tuggar, Minister of Foreign Affairs.
According to presidential sources, the Vice President departed Nigeria around midnight on Sunday. His arrival in London was witnessed by Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum and Femi Gbajabiamila, Chief of Staff to the President.
Former President Buhari passed away on Sunday after being hospitalized in the UK for an extended period. The former leader had battled undisclosed ailments for years, including during his two terms as Nigeria's President from 2015 to 2023.
The repatriation mission underscores the solemn national duty to honor the former president with a proper burial in his homeland. Buhari's remains are expected to arrive in Nigeria today, where final burial rites will be conducted according to Islamic tradition.
The news of Buhari's passing has prompted tributes from across Nigeria's political spectrum. Former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo shared how his family received the news, while the Southern Governors' Forum issued a statement mourning the former president's death.
The National Orientation Agency has called on Nigerians to honor Buhari by living according to his ideals of integrity and service. Other tributes have highlighted his advocacy for local government autonomy and his reputation for leading a prudent, contented life.
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