President Bola Tinubu has declared a seven-day national mourning period in honor of Nigeria’s Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, who passed away on Tuesday following a prolonged illness. The directive, delivered through Special Adviser on Information and Strategy Mr. Bayo Onanuga, includes flying the national flag at half-mast to honor Lagbaja’s life and contributions to the nation’s security.
Appointed as Chief of Army Staff on June 19, 2023, Lagbaja was widely respected for his dedication and impactful role in bolstering Nigeria’s defense operations. President Tinubu expressed deep condolences to his family and postponed the scheduled Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting as a mark of respect. The President praised Lagbaja’s “significant contributions to the nation” and his courageous commitment to Nigeria’s peace.
Vice President Kashim Shettima and other officials observed a minute’s silence for the late Army Chief, followed by a condolence visit to the President’s residence. Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, lauded Lagbaja as a reliable and dedicated leader who championed Nigerian security initiatives, notably the establishment of the Nigerian Army Aviation wing.
Acting Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, called on Nigerians to honor Lagbaja’s legacy of service, underscoring his unwavering dedication to the nation. Similarly, First Lady Mrs. Oluremi Tinubu, alongside Vice President’s wife Nana Shettima and Hajiya Ribadu, wife of the National Security Adviser, extended their condolences to Lagbaja’s family.
Notable figures, including former President Muhammadu Buhari, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and House Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, also expressed profound sorrow over the loss. Also, Governors and other leaders across Nigeria commemorated Lagbaja’s contributions to national security, describing him as a patriot and a devoted servant to the nation.
Lt. Gen. Lagbaja, who passed away at the age of 56, was a prominent figure in Nigeria’s defense landscape, particularly through his role in internal security operations across the country. His hometown, Ilobu in Osun State, suspended its annual celebrations in his honor. His dedication to Nigeria’s peace and security will continue to inspire those who serve the nation.
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