President Bola Tinubu on Friday led the nation in paying final respects to the late Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, who was laid to rest at the National Military Cemetery in Abuja.
In his remarks, the President praised Lagbaja for distinguishing himself as a thoroughbred professional soldier throughout his military career, adding that his legacy of service will be cherished forever.
The President announced the posthumous conferment of the Commander of the Federal Republic (CFR) on the late Chief of Army Staff, which his widow, Mariya, received.
“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.
“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,” he said.
The President extended his condolences to the family of the late General, emphasising that words can never convey the nation’s gratitude for the selfless service of the departed.
“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,” he said.
The President urged members of the Armed Forces to honour Lieutenant General Lagbaja’s memory by rededicating themselves to the principles of patriotism and love for Nigeria.
“While we are saddened by his passing, we still celebrate his life.
“For his courage, sacrifice and leadership, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja will forever reside in the pantheon of military greats,” he said.
