Lagbaja served Nigeria with honour, says Deputy Senate President

The Deputy Senate President, Jibrin Barau, has mourned the passing of the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Taoreed Lagbaja, who died on Tuesday night at the age of 56.

In a statement released by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ismail Mudashir, on Wednesday, Barau praised the late Army Chief’s dedication to Nigeria, highlighting his significant contributions to national security.

He said, “It is with profound sadness that we mourn the passing of the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, who passed away last night in Lagos after a period of illness.

“Lt. General Lagbaja served with honour, courage, and dedication throughout his distinguished military career. His appointment as Chief of Army Staff by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on June 19, 2023, reflected the President’s confidence in his leadership, vision, and commitment to the security of our nation.

“Lt. General Lagbaja’s life was marked by a relentless devotion to Nigeria and its people. His legacy will be remembered in the annals of our Armed Forces and in the hearts of all who knew and respected his work.”

Barau added, “I extend my heartfelt condolences to his immediate family, friends, the Nigerian Army, and the entire Armed Forces. May his soul rest in peace, and may his service and sacrifice continue to inspire us all.”

PUNCH Online reports that Lagbaja died on Tuesday after a brief illness. His passing was confirmed in a statement by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, on Wednesday.

In the statement titled “Announcement of the Passing of Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja,” Onanuga stated that Lagbaja died on Tuesday night in Lagos following an illness.

“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, regrets to announce the passing of Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, Chief of the Army Staff, at the age of 56.

“President Tinubu expresses his heartfelt condolences to the family and the Nigerian Armed Forces during this difficult time. He wishes Lt. General Lagbaja eternal peace and honours his significant contributions to the nation,” the statement read.