Editor
President Bola Tinubu on Friday led the nation in paying final respects to the late Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, during a solemn burial ceremony at the National Military Cemetery in Abuja.
The ceremony was attended by Vice President Kashim Shettima, top government officials, senior military officers, and members of the diplomatic corps.
President Tinubu, alongside Vice President Shettima, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas, Chairman of the Nigeria Governors Forum and Governor of Kwara State Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, Minister of Defence Badaru Abubakar, and Service Chiefs, laid wreaths in honor of the late general. His widow, Mariya Lagbaja, also took part in the poignant tribute.
In his address, President Tinubu commended Lagbaja’s distinguished military career, noting that his legacy of dedication and service will be remembered forever. He announced the posthumous award of the Commander of the Federal Republic (CFR) to the late COAS, which was accepted by Mariya.
“Today is a solemn day for the nation and for me as Commander-in-Chief. We lay to rest a true soldier—an exemplary general and officer whose commitment to Nigeria was unparalleled,” President Tinubu said. “He was a trusted advisor, whose deep intellect and dedication served the nation well. More importantly, he was a leader who prioritized the welfare of his troops over himself.”
Reflecting on the loss, President Tinubu said, “The hand of God works in mysterious ways, and while we may not fully understand His plans, we trust in His wisdom. General Lagbaja’s service, at a time when it was most needed, was cut short, but he has been called to serve in the celestial army.”
He encouraged the nation to draw inspiration from the late general’s courage. “As it is said, ‘the brave never die; their courage inspires the living.’ Let the courage that defined General Lagbaja’s service continue to guide us all,” he stated.
The President conveyed his deepest sympathies to the Lagbaja family, recognizing their sacrifices. “You shared your beloved husband, father, and brother with an entire nation, allowing him to serve with honor. His dedication will be remembered, and his life’s work will inspire future generations of military personnel,” he said.
President Tinubu called on the Armed Forces to honor Lagbaja’s legacy by committing themselves to the principles of patriotism and unwavering service to Nigeria. “While we mourn his passing, we celebrate his remarkable life and achievements. Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja will forever be remembered among military greats for his courage, sacrifice, and leadership.”
President Tinubu described the late COAS as one of his most distinguished appointees, who, despite his brief tenure, made a significant impact on Nigeria’s fight against terrorism and banditry. “General Lagbaja exemplified the ideals of patriotism and soldierly commitment. His unwavering belief in the capacity of our armed forces to protect our nation was evident in his leadership.”
Recalling the general’s dedication to the welfare of his troops, President Tinubu said, “He was passionate about supporting soldiers and their families. His commitment to ensuring the payment of outstanding Group Life Assurance benefits brought relief to many, clearing a backlog that dated back to 2011.”
The funeral featured full military honors, including a 19-gun salute, paying homage to the late general.
Lieutenant General Lagbaja, who passed away on November 5, 2024, was appointed Chief of Army Staff on June 19, 2023, by President Tinubu. His distinguished military career began at the Nigerian Defence Academy in 1987, culminating in his appointment as COAS.
