President Bola Tinubu arrived at the National Cemetery in Abuja to pay his final respects to the late Chief of Army Staff, Lt-Gen. Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, whose interment took place on Friday. The solemn ceremony commenced shortly after the President took his seat at 3:10 pm, marking a moment of national reflection on the loss of a distinguished military leader.
Vice President Kashim Shettima and other top government officials, including Defence Minister Badaru Abubakar and Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Christopher Musa, were also in attendance. The proceedings began with the Pall Bearers setting the casket, followed by a Faith Service and Opening Prayer. The traditional Last Post ceremony was observed, accompanied by a minute’s silence in honour of the departed General.
In a symbolic gesture, the Acting Chief of Army Staff, Lt-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, presented the national flag to Lagbaja’s next of kin, acknowledging his service and dedication to the nation. President Tinubu, alongside other dignitaries, then led a wreath-laying ceremony, paying tribute to the late Army Chief before the casket was lowered into its final resting place.
The announcement of Lt-Gen. Lagbaja’s passing was made by the Presidency on November 6, 2024. He died at age 56 on the evening of November 5 in Lagos after battling an illness. A statement from President Tinubu expressed deep sorrow over the loss, noting Lagbaja’s exceptional military career and his impact on national security.
Lt-Gen. Lagbaja’s military journey began at the Nigerian Defence Academy in 1987, where he was part of the 39th Regular Course. He was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the Nigerian Infantry Corps on September 19, 1992. Over the years, he held various command roles, including platoon commander positions in the 93 Battalion and 72 Special Forces Battalion. His leadership was instrumental in several internal security operations, such as Operation ZAKI in Benue State, Lafiya Dole in Borno, Operation Udoka in the Southeast, and Operation Forest Sanity across Kaduna and Niger states.
A graduate of the prestigious US Army War College, Lagbaja earned a Master’s degree in Strategic Studies, underscoring his commitment to advancing his military expertise. His strategic acumen and dedication to professional growth left a lasting legacy in the Nigerian Armed Forces.
Lt-Gen. Lagbaja is survived by his wife, Mariya, and their two children. President Tinubu extended his heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of the late General, acknowledging his significant contributions to the country. The President expressed his hope for eternal peace for Lagbaja, recognizing his service as a source of pride for the nation.
