A high-profile delegation comprsing Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun and business magnate Aliko Dangote arrived in Katsina early Tuesday morning to pay their respects at the state funeral of the late President Muhammadu Buhari.
The dignitaries landed at Sir Ahmadu Bello International Airport shortly before 10 a.m., bwhere they were received by Katsina State officials led by Governor Dikko Radda. Dramatically flanked by traditional guards of honour, Governor Sanwo-Olu and Governor Abiodun, both clad in traditional northern attire, exchanged brief pleasantries with Dangote before proceeding to the main funeral grounds.
In remarks to journalists, Governor Sanwo-Olu described President Buhari as “a formidable leader whose integrity and dedication to public service helped steer Nigeria through challenging times.” He added, “It is only fitting that we gather here in his home state of Katsina to honour his memory and legacy.”
Governor Abiodun echoed these sentiments, recalling Buhari’s background as a career military officer and later as a civilian head of state who pursued anti-corruption and security reforms. “This occasion is about unity and healing,” he said. “We come together not as party men or women, but as Nigerians celebrating a colleague who served his nation.”
Aliko Dangote, Africa’s richest man and a longtime associate of the late president, observed a brief moment of silence before paying floral tributes at the burial site. In a short statement, he hailed Buhari’s commitment to economic development, noting that many of the former leader’s policies “laid the groundwork for private-sector growth across Nigeria.”
The state-organized funeral proceedings are expected to draw numerous other federal and state officials, traditional rulers, and international envoys. Later today, family members and invited guests will attend a private interment ceremony at the Buhari family mausoleum in Daura, after which a public thanksgiving service will be held at the Emir’s Palace.
As Katsina prepares to bid farewell to one of its most eminent sons, the presence of governors and business leaders underscores the enduring impact of Muhammadu Buhari’s life and work on Nigeria’s political and economic landscape.
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