I am deeply saddened by the loss of the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, a true embodiment of discipline and dedication. His passing leaves a void in the Nigerian Army and the nation at large.
I extend my heartfelt condolences to the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, General Lagbaja’s beloved wife, Mrs. Mariyah Abiodun Lagbaja, the Acting Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, and the entire Nigerian Army. May Allah forgive his shortcomings and grant him eternal rest.
During my time as COAS, I found him worthy of command where he was appointed Commander 9 Brigade in Ikeja and later Commander 2 Brigade in Uyo. The 2 Brigade that I also commanded. Upon his promotion to the rank of Major General, I posted him to Army Headquarters as the Director Campaign Plan in 2020. The nation has lost a strategic commander.
General Lagbaja’s leadership and vision have been instrumental in shaping the Nigerian Army into the formidable institution it is today. His legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched and the nation he served with great zeal and commitment.
In this difficult time, I pray that General Lagbaja’s family, friends, and colleagues find solace in the memories of his remarkable life and service. May his dedication to Nigeria inspire future generations to follow in his footsteps.
Rest in peace, General Lagbaja. Your service to our great nation will never be forgotten.
Lieutenant General (Amb) Tukur Yusufu Buratai (Rtd) CFR
Former Chief of Army Staff and former Nigerian Ambassador to the Republic of Benin.
