President Bola Tinubu has paid tribute to the late Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, who passed away on November 5, 2024, at the age of 56. Tinubu attended Lagbaja’s burial ceremony at the National Military Cemetery in Abuja, alongside Vice President Kashim Shettima .
In a heartfelt statement, Tinubu described Lagbaja as a “soldier’s soldier” who embodied the finest ideals of a patriot and a soldier. He praised Lagbaja’s commitment to Nigeria’s safety and well-being, noting that his selfless service has inspired countless individuals in the armed forces .
Lagbaja’s tenure as Chief of Army Staff, though brief, was marked by significant contributions to Nigeria’s security. He played a key role in operations against terrorism, insurgency, and banditry, and his hands-on approach earned him the respect of his peers and the rank and file.
Key Highlights of Lagbaja’s Career:
Chief of Army Staff (June 2023 – November 2024)
General Officer Commanding Headquarters 82 Division
Chief of Staff at Headquarters 8 Task Force Division
Instructor at the Nigerian Defence Academy
Participant in notable operations, including Operation Harmony IV and Operation Lafiya Dole.
Tinubu’s tribute to Lagbaja reflects the nation’s gratitude for his service and sacrifice. As Nigeria mourns the loss of a true hero, Lagbaja’s legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.
EXCERPT
- Today is a solemn day for the nation and for me as Commander-in-Chief, as we laid to rest, a soldier’s soldier, Lt. General Taoreed Lagbaja – a General and Officer who symbolised the best of his profession and whose commitment to the nation he loved was singular and undiluted.
For me, he was a trusted advisor whose formidable intellect and breadth of knowledge served this nation well. More than that, he was also a man of prudent action who cared more for his nation and for those who served under him than he ever did for himself. At a time when his service to the nation could mean so much, God took him home to serve in His celestial army.
His departure could cause us great dismay. However, Lieutenant General Lagbaja would not want sorrow to overtake us. It has been said that “the brave never die. Their courage serves a thousand living men.” So be it then; may the courage by which Lieutenant General Lagbaja served and now shine forth live in each of us. - To the family of the late General Labaja, words can never convey our dear nation’s gratitude for his selfless service. You shared your beloved husband, father, and brother with an entire nation, allowing him to serve with honour. His sacrifices will never be forgotten. His life’s work will continue to inspire all who serve in our armed forces.
Lt. General Lagbaja was one of my best appointees, and although his tenure was brief, it marked a transformative period in our fight against terrorism, insurgency and banditry. He embodied the finest ideals of a patriot and a soldier, and he had an abiding faith in the capacity and readiness of our armed forces to keep us safe.
From his hands-on participation in many internal security operations, Lieutenant General Lagbaja had a clear understanding of the role of the military in securing and defending our country, its people and their hard-won democratic institutions.
He displayed uncommon valour in the discharge of his duty, earning the admiration of the rank and file, for he cared about their welfare and their families.
Cont’d…..
