A Lasting Legacy of Courage and Service
General Olufemi Oluyede, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), paid heartfelt tribute to General Taoreed Lagbaja, the former Chief of Army Staff, during a solemn interdenominational memorial service held in his honor. The event took place at the All Saints’ Military Church (Protestant) in Mogadishu Cantonment, Abuja, on Sunday. It marked one year since the passing of General Lagbaja on 5 November 2024, and was filled with deep reflection and remembrance for a soldier whose life embodied courage, humility, and service to the nation.
General Oluyede described General Lagbaja as a fearless commander, a compassionate leader, and a consummate patriot. He emphasized that Lagbaja’s unwavering devotion to duty and love for his troops remain indelible in the annals of the Nigerian Army. His leadership, according to Oluyede, was defined by integrity, empathy, and an uncommon commitment to the welfare of personnel and the unity of the nation.
The late General Lagbaja was fondly remembered as a visionary leader, a disciplined officer, and a patriot whose selfless service and enduring legacy continue to inspire generations of soldiers across the Nigerian Armed Forces. At the event, Oluyede extended the condolences of the Armed Forces to the Lagbaja family, praying for God’s continued strength and comfort. He also reaffirmed that the legacy of the late Army Chief would continue to guide and inspire the Nigerian Army and the Armed Forces toward greater professionalism and national service.
A Life of Faith and Dedication
Delivering the sermon, Lieutenant Colonel Bitrus Nyam, Acting Director, Chaplain Services (Protestant), extolled the virtues of the late COAS. He urged officers and soldiers to emulate his life of faith, dedication, and patriotism. Nyam described General Lagbaja as a faithful soldier of Christ, a loving father, and a leader who served both God and country with humility and honor.
The service featured special prayers and thanksgiving for the family of the late Chief of Army Staff, as well as moments of solemn reflection in his memory. Highlights included heartfelt tributes from senior military officials and a celebration of Lagbaja’s contributions to the Nigerian Armed Forces.
A Gathering of Dignitaries and Leaders
The event was attended by several high-ranking military officials, including the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, alongside former Service Chiefs and senior officers of the Armed Forces of Nigeria. All paid glowing tributes to the late Lagbaja, recognizing his significant impact on the military and the nation.
Also present were former Chiefs of Defence Staff, Generals LEO Irabor (Rtd) and Christopher Musa (Rtd). The representative of the Chief of Army Staff, Commander Army Headquarters Garrison, Major General Maxwell Dangana, was also in attendance. Mrs. Mariya Abiodun Lagbaja, the wife of the late COAS, was present, along with the President of the Defence and Police Officers Wives Association and presidents of sister organizations.
Members of the Lagbaja family were joined by members of the 39 Regular Course senior officers, both serving and retired. Principal staff officers from Defence and Service Headquarters, spouses of officers and soldiers, as well as officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Army, all participated in the event.
Honoring a Heroic Leader
General Taoreed Lagbaja’s life and career left an indelible mark on the Nigerian military. His leadership style, characterized by compassion and discipline, set a standard for future leaders. The memorial service not only celebrated his achievements but also reinforced the values he stood for—integrity, service, and unity.
As the Nigerian Armed Forces look to the future, they carry forward the legacy of General Lagbaja, ensuring that his contributions continue to inspire and guide the next generation of soldiers. His story serves as a reminder of the importance of selfless service and the profound impact one individual can have on an entire nation.