The Nigerian Armed Forces held a solemn ceremony to honor the late Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, Chief of Army Staff, at the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) wing of the Lagos Airport. This marked the beginning of his final journey as his body was transported to Abuja for burial.
The ceremony, a tribute to General Lagbaja’s remarkable service to Nigeria, featured a ceremonial parade conducted by 48 soldiers and three officers from the Army, Navy, and Air Force. The presence of high-ranking officers from the Nigerian Armed Forces, Nigeria Police Force, and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) emphasized the unity and respect shared across Nigeria’s security community for the fallen general.
General Lagbaja’s motorcade, led by an Army ambulance, arrived at the Lagos Airport accompanied by senior military officials and dignitaries, including the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 81 Division, Major General Farouk Umar Mijinyawa.
A poignant moment of the event was the involvement of General Lagbaja’s course mates from the Army, Navy, and Air Force, who served as pallbearers. They carried the casket to the waiting C-130 Hercules aircraft, the military plane assigned for the transport to Abuja. Soldiers stood in formation as a military band played, adding a solemn tone to the proceedings.
Reflections on General Lagbaja’s dedication to national security were shared during the ceremony. Senior officers highlighted his significant contributions to strengthening Nigeria’s defense capabilities and his leadership in critical military operations.
Among the dignitaries present were Lagos State Deputy Governor Dr. Obafemi Hamzat and representatives of the Oba of Lagos. Their presence reflected the profound impact of General Lagbaja’s service, which extended beyond the military to touch the lives of civilians and traditional institutions alike.
Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja was widely regarded for his resilience, leadership, and strategic acumen. His passing has drawn tributes from across the nation, with many describing him as a courageous and transformative leader in Nigeria’s defense sector.
The C-130 Hercules aircraft departed Lagos for Abuja, where further ceremonies, including a military burial parade, are planned. The rites will honor General Lagbaja’s legacy and his lifelong commitment to the Nigerian Armed Forces.
General Lagbaja’s death has left a void in Nigeria’s military command. However, his legacy of service and integrity will remain a source of inspiration for those he mentored and the nation he served so diligently.