Tribute to a Distinguished Soldier
The Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, honored the late former Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, during an inter-denominational memorial service held in Abuja. The event took place on Sunday and was organized in his honor.
Oluyede described Lagbaja, who passed away on 5 November 2024, as a courageous officer who placed the welfare of troops at the forefront and maintained strong relationships with colleagues and subordinates. Speaking at the service, he emphasized that Lagbaja was “a soldier of soldiers” and a champion of soldiers’ welfare and well-being.
“Describing him to you today will surely keep us here longer than necessary. So, I’m just going to describe him so simply. He was a soldier of soldiers. Very courageous. And he was a champion of soldiers’ welfare and well-being,” Oluyede said.
He also highlighted how Lagbaja’s Christian faith influenced his life and leadership, including his empathy and generosity. Oluyede noted that the late general was a true soldier of Christ.
“He was a dedicated child of God in all spheres. And that probably influenced his courage in battle. His empathy for others generally. That could also influence his generosity. And … his general relationship with others. He was a friend to many. And he was someone that stood for others,” Oluyede said.
Reflections on Legacy
Oluyede encouraged attendees to reflect on the legacy they would leave behind, urging them to consider what they would be remembered for. He posed thought-provoking questions about whether people would be remembered for greed or for preciousness, for lack of benevolence, or for being unfriendly.
“For General Lagbaja, I am sure he was well received by God and his angels. I pray that God will never forsake them (his family). Neither am I going to leave them. I’m going to be with them for as long as we live,” he said.
A Sermon on Faith and Service
In his sermon titled “A Good Soldier of Jesus Christ”, the Acting Director of Chaplaincy Services (Protestant), Nigerian Army, Lieutenant-Colonel Bitrus Nyam, spoke about Lagbaja’s gallant operational performance. He referenced 2 Timothy 2:1-4, stating that Lagbaja represented Christ and was also a good father who nurtured his children and wanted to see them become better than him.
Nyam added that Lagbaja “was not a distracted soldier but an exemplary one who remained focused till the end.”
A Lasting Impact
The late Lagbaja served as the 23rd Chief of Army Staff of Nigeria before his death. The inter-denominational service was part of activities marking one year since his passing.
Key Points from the Memorial
- General Olufemi Oluyede paid tribute to Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja during a memorial service in Abuja.
- Lagbaja was described as a courageous officer who prioritized the welfare of troops.
- His Christian faith influenced his leadership and character.
- The service included a sermon highlighting Lagbaja’s dedication and focus.
- The event marked one year since Lagbaja’s passing.