By Kayode Sanni-Arewa
Final rites have been made for the burial of the late Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, who passed away last week after a protracted illness.
His remains, which arrived at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport on Thursday at 12:18 pm, will be laid to rest on Friday at the National Military Cemetery in Abuja.
The funeral rites began Thursday with a Service of Songs at Mogadishu Cantonment, attended by prominent officials from various security agencies.
During the ceremony, Maj.-Gen. Kelvin Aligbe, Commander of the Training and Doctrine Command, paid a heartfelt tribute to the late army chief, praising his leadership and dedication.
Aligbe, speaking on behalf of the 39 Regular Course of the Nigerian Defence Academy, described Lagbaja as a natural leader whose dedication and service were evident from the beginning.
“He was a born leader who exemplified unwavering commitment to Nigeria’s unity and service to the nation.
His contributions were immeasurable, and we must continue to uphold his values,” Aligbe said.
Bilikisu Ibrahim, representing the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association, also paid tribute, highlighting Lagbaja’s deep faith and commitment to his duties. “He was a protector and a source of strength, always facing life’s challenges with profound spirituality,” Ibrahim said.
The nation continues to honor the life and legacy of a revered military leader as the funeral proceedings unfold today.