“A National Hero Lost”: CDS General Musa Mourns Lt-Gen Lagbaja’s Passing
"A National Hero Lost": CDS General Musa Mourns Lt-Gen Lagbaja's Passing
“A National Hero Lost”: CDS General Musa Mourns Lt-Gen Lagbaja’s Passing
In a profound expression of grief, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Gwabin Musa, OFR, announced the passing of the Chief of Army Staff, Lt-Gen Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, NAM, who died Tuesday after a brief illness. On behalf of the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN), General Musa conveyed heartfelt condolences to the President, Commander-in-Chief, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, the family of the late General Lagbaja, and the entire nation.
General Musa described the late Army Chief as a “courageous, hard-working, reliable, loyal, and dedicated service chief,” whose devotion to the security and welfare of Nigeria knew no bounds. “His passing,” General Musa said, “is not just a loss to his family, the Army, and the Armed Forces but also to Nigeria and humanity.”
A Legacy of Service and Sacrifice
Since his appointment as Chief of Army Staff on June 19, 2024, Lt-Gen Lagbaja has left an indelible mark on the Nigerian Army and the national defense landscape. He spearheaded the establishment of the Nigerian Army Aviation Wing and led several critical security operations across the nation. His efforts in Operations FOREST SANITATION in Kaduna and Niger States, LAFIYA DOLE, ZAMAN LAFIYA, and HADIN KAI in Borno, ZAKI in Benue, and UDOKA in the Southeast, among others, have underscored his tireless dedication to Nigeria’s safety and security.
A Family and Nation in Mourning
General Musa offered prayers for strength and comfort for Lt-Gen Lagbaja’s wife, Mrs. Maria Lagbaja, and his family in this time of deep sorrow. He noted that the void left by General Lagbaja’s dedicated service will be deeply felt by the Armed Forces and the nation, especially amid ongoing security challenges.
Reflecting on his 16-month tenure, General Musa lauded the late Army Chief’s “sterling performance, courage, and steadfast commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s sovereignty.” Lt-Gen Lagbaja’s legacy of service, dedication, and exceptional leadership will forever be etched in the annals of the Nigerian Armed Forces and the nation at large.
“A National Hero Lost”: CDS General Musa Mourns Lt-Gen Lagbaja’s Passing
