‘His life was devoted to preserving Nigeria’ – Tinubu hails late General Lagbaja
By Kunle Sanni
President Bola Tinubu has described the late Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, as a “dedicated general who devoted his life to preserving the house we call Nigeria.”
Speaking at the interment ceremony held at the National Military Cemetery in Abuja, Tinubu praised Lagbaja’s selfless service and unwavering commitment to the nation.
“This general dedicated himself to the preservation of the house we call Nigeria. Because of him, and men and women like him, this house shall stand firm and well protected,” Tinubu said.
“Today, we pay tribute to a general whose story of illustrious service will be told for generations to come. For his courage, sacrifice, and leadership, General Lagbaja will forever reside in the pantheon of military greats,” the President added.
Posthumous Honour
The Western Post Online reported that President Tinubu conferred the posthumous national honour of Commander of the Federal Republic (CFR) on the late general, presenting it to his widow, Maria Lagbaja.
“Today, we lay to rest a soldier’s soldier—a man who symbolized the best of his profession and whose dedication to Nigeria was singular and undiluted,” Tinubu said. “He was not only a trusted advisor but also a patriot who cared deeply for those who served under him.”
The President also highlighted Lagbaja’s efforts to improve the welfare of military personnel and their families. He was instrumental in championing the payment of long-overdue life insurance benefits to the families of fallen soldiers, clearing a backlog that dated back to 2011.
“His compassion for soldiers and their families was unmatched,” Tinubu noted. “Because of his advocacy, many families received the financial relief they deserved. This is just one of many legacies he leaves behind.”
Tributes and Legacy
Tinubu acknowledged the numerous tributes pouring in from military personnel, both serving and retired, which underscored Lagbaja’s transformative impact on Nigeria’s security architecture.
One tribute described him as a leader whose tenure marked “the end of an era characterized by exceptional military leadership and remarkable achievements in the fight against terrorism.”
“In the annals of Nigerian military history, few leaders have left as indelible a mark as Lieutenant General Lagbaja,” Tinubu remarked. “His courage, sacrifice, and leadership will inspire generations to come.”
A Call to Honour His Memory
Addressing the military, Tinubu urged them to honour Lagbaja by continuing the fight against insecurity with renewed vigour.
“Do not let death defeat us,” he said. “Lift your heads in pride, in memory of your army chief. Honour him by pressing on gallantly with the unfinished business of securing our nation.”
To Lagbaja’s family, Tinubu expressed the nation’s gratitude for sharing him with the country. “His sacrifice will never be forgotten. His life’s work will continue to inspire us all,” he said.
A Life of Service
Born on February 28, 1968, Lieutenant General Lagbaja began his military journey at the Nigerian Defence Academy in 1987.
Over his illustrious career, he rose through the ranks to hold key positions, including General Officer Commanding of the 82 and 1 Divisions, before being appointed Chief of Army Staff in June 2023.
Lagbaja played pivotal roles in major internal security operations, including Operations Zaki in Benue, Lafiya Dole in Borno, Udoka in the Southeast, and Forest Sanity in Kaduna and Niger States.
His tenure as Chief of Army Staff was marked by a transformative approach to combating insurgency and banditry, earning him widespread respect and admiration.
