Muhammadu Buhari, the immediate past President of Nigeria, has left the Eagle Square in Abuja and headed to the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport en route to his hometown, Daura, in Katsina State. His departure followed the swearing-in of Bola Tinubu as President and Kashim Shettima as Vice President on Monday.
Before leaving, Buhari conducted a formal handover of flags and other insignia of office to the newly inaugurated President. In a symbolic gesture, the former President passed on the responsibility of leadership to his successor.
The night prior to his departure, Buhari shared a dinner at the State House Banquet Hall with Bola Tinubu and other dignitaries. This gathering provided an opportunity for camaraderie and reflection as the torch of leadership was passed on to the new administration.
Alhamdulillah! President Muhammadu Buhari departs Abuja for Daura, his hometown, after eight years serving the country as the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces. Thank you, Baba. pic.twitter.com/MpkTtOXoR3
— Bashir Ahmad (@BashirAhmaad) May 29, 2023
Throughout his presidency, Buhari had expressed his intention to retire to his hometown and dedicate himself to tending to his cattle after completing his tenure. Now that his term has concluded, he will return to Daura, where he will be welcomed back home with a Durbar ceremony on Tuesday.
Nigeria's former first lady, Aisha Buhari arrives at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport ahead of their departure to Daura in Katsina State.#InaugurationDay#GovernorshipInauguration#May29#CTVTweets pic.twitter.com/OsPWED170w
— Channels Television (@channelstv) May 29, 2023
The Durbar ceremony is a traditional festivity that holds cultural significance in northern Nigeria. It will serve as a celebration of Buhari’s return to his community and an opportunity for the local people to express their support and appreciation for his service as President.
As Buhari embarks on the next chapter of his life, Nigerians bid farewell to their former leader and look ahead to the new era under President Tinubu’s leadership.
