By Victor Akaa.
The Nigerian Army (NA) has received an outpouring of support and condolences following the passing of Lieutenant General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), who died on November 5, 2024, after a brief illness.
Director Army Public Relations, Major General Onyema Nwachukwu, disclosed this in a statement, said the Acting COAS, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, received both the House Committee on Army, led by Honourable Aminu Balele and the Governor of Imo state, Hope Uzodimma on their separate visits at Army Headquarters Abuja on Friday.
In his remarks, Honourable Aminu Balele, Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Army, extended heartfelt condolences to the Nigerian Army. Balele praised General Lagbaja’s selfless service, acknowledging his tireless efforts in combating security challenges and promoting national security before his untimely death.
He recognized the late COAS’ resolute commitment to defending Nigeria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity and encouraged the Acting COAS to sustain the legacies left by the late General Lagbaja. The committee expressed confidence in the ability and capacity of General Oluyede to lead the Army to greater heights and pledged their total support to the Acting COAS and the Nigerian Army to achieve its assigned responsibilities.
Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodinma, also paid tribute to General Lagbaja, describing him as a pivotal military leader in shaping the Nigerian Army’s response to security challenges. The Governor expressed optimism that the family of the deceased would find solace in the fact that General Lagbaja lived a remarkable, exemplary and meritorious life.
Responding separately, the Acting COAS, Lieutenant General Oluyede received both the committee and the Governor’s condolences and assured the continuity of General Lagbaja’s legacies.
He described the late COAS as a rare gem who dedicated his life to serving Nigeria and humanity. He also highlighted the modest achievements of late General Lagbaja, noting that the NA would continue remember and celebrate his legacies.
General Lagbaja served as Chief of Army Staff from June 2023 until his passing. His remarkable career spanned over three decades, with notable roles in various military operations, including Operation HARMONY IV, MONUC, and Operation LAFIYA DOLE.
