By John Umeh
Vice President Kashim Shettima has paid a condolence visit to former First Lady, Aisha Buhari, in London following the passing of her husband, former President Muhammadu Buhari. The visit, which took place on Monday, was part of the Vice President’s ongoing efforts to personally console members of the late president’s family amid a period of national mourning.
Accompanied by a small delegation of senior government officials and aides, Shettima arrived at the private London residence where Aisha Buhari has been staying since the news of her husband’s passing broke. Sources close to the family say the former First Lady has remained in London for medical observation and quiet mourning.
During the emotional visit, Shettima expressed deep sympathy on behalf of President Bola Tinubu, the Federal Government, and the Nigerian people. He described Buhari as “a national symbol of integrity and selfless service” and offered prayers for strength and comfort for the grieving widow and her family.
“This is not just a loss to the family, but to the entire nation,” Shettima reportedly said. “President Buhari was a father figure to millions and a rare leader who stood by his convictions, no matter the cost. We are here to honour him, support you, and reaffirm our commitment to preserving his legacy.”
Aisha Buhari, visibly moved, thanked the Vice President for the visit and acknowledged the outpouring of love and condolences from Nigerians and the international community. She described her husband as “a man who lived and died for the values he believed in,” adding that his greatest wish was always for a peaceful and united Nigeria.
The visit comes ahead of the official state burial scheduled to take place on Tuesday, July 15, in Daura, Katsina State. While Aisha Buhari is expected to return to Nigeria in the coming days to attend final rites, sources say she has requested privacy and time to grieve with her immediate family before rejoining public life.
The Vice President’s visit has drawn praise from many Nigerians who see the gesture as a symbol of respect and solidarity at a time of deep national reflection. Shettima has been at the forefront of coordinating national tributes, working closely with President Tinubu and other stakeholders to ensure a dignified farewell for the late president.
Meanwhile, tributes continue to pour in from global leaders, with messages of condolence received from the African Union, United Nations, and several heads of state, including those of Ghana, the United Kingdom, and Saudi Arabia.
Former President Muhammadu Buhari passed away peacefully in Daura at the age of 82. His death marks the end of an era in Nigerian political history, with many reflecting on his military and civilian contributions to the nation. The public holiday declared for July 15 will serve as a national day of mourning, allowing citizens to honour the life and service of the late leader.
As Nigeria prepares to lay one of its most iconic figures to rest, Vice President Shettima’s visit to Aisha Buhari stands as a poignant reminder of the human side of leadership, grief, and the enduring power of national unity.
