TWELVE days after the funeral of Nigeria’s former President, Muhammadu Buhari, his widow, Mrs. Aisha Buhari, and their children have officially returned to Kaduna State, where they were warmly received by government officials in a show of solidarity and continued respect for the late statesman.
News Point Nigeria former First Lady, accompanied by her son, Yusuf Buhari, daughter, Zahra Buhari and other family members, arrived at the Nigerian Air Force Base, Kaduna, on Sunday, July 27, 2025, from Daura, their hometown in Katsina State where President Buhari was laid to rest.
Their return marks the end of the immediate mourning period, following the burial of the former president on Tuesday, July 15, in line with Islamic funeral rites, two days after his passing in a London hospital on July 13 at the age of 82.
Upon arrival at the Air Force Base, the Buhari family was received by Kaduna State Deputy Governor, Dr. Hadiza Balarabe, who led a high-powered state delegation to formally welcome them.
She was joined by the Majority Leader of the Kaduna State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Munira Tanimu, and other senior government functionaries.
The atmosphere was solemn yet cordial, reflecting not only condolences but also the deep esteem in which the late president and his family are held.
Dr. Balarabe extended the condolences of the Kaduna State Government, led by Governor Uba Sani, to Mrs. Buhari and her family, assuring them of the state’s continued support during their time of bereavement and transition.
Following the welcome, the Deputy Governor and her team accompanied the family to their Kaduna residence, located in Sultan Lane, Government Reserved Area (GRA), one of the most prominent neighborhoods in the state capital.
Though Muhammadu Buhari hailed from Daura, Kaduna has long served as a secondary base for the family, both during and after his presidency.
The return to Kaduna is seen as both symbolic and practical, a resettling into a quieter life after decades in the national spotlight.
A source told News Point Nigeria that Mrs. Aisha Buhari has strong connections in Kaduna, where she also pursued her advocacy and women’s empowerment programmes during her tenure as First Lady.
The presence of her children, especially Yusuf, suggests that the family intends to maintain a low public profile while adjusting to life after the presidency and mourning the patriarch of their household.
President Buhari’s death sent shockwaves across Nigeria and beyond, sparking an outpouring of condolences from world leaders, fellow African statesmen, diplomats, and ordinary Nigerians.
Since his passing, tributes have continued to pour in, reflecting on his military legacy, anti-corruption crusade, and two-term civilian presidency which spanned from 2015 to 2023.
His time in office was met with commendable remarks, many have acknowledged his contributions to stabilizing democracy and championing a more self-reliant Nigeria.
As the Buhari family settles into life in Kaduna, Nigerians are watching closely to see what role, if any, they may continue to play in public service, business, or advocacy.
For now, however, the focus remains on healing, remembrance, and adjusting to a new chapter.
As one neighbour in Sultan Lane, Hajiya Rasheedat Abdullateef commented: “This is a quiet area. The President will be remembered here, not with noise, but with dignity. And we will stand by the family, just as they stood by Nigeria.”
News Point Nigeria‘s correspondent, who visited Sultan Lane, observed that the narrow street where the former president’s residence is located was largely deserted, with only a few vehicles parked in front of neighbouring houses.
Soldiers and policemen were seen stationed at the entrance gate, along with plain clothes security personnel believed to be undercover operatives maintaining vigilance.
It was also gathered that the first house on the left of the street belongs to the late General Shehu Musa Yar’adua and was guarded by soldiers.
Other notable figures residing in the area include a former minister of environment, Mahmoud Abubakar and a former Kaduna State governor, Mukhtar Ramalan Yero.
