It was a day of solemnity and heavy hearts on Friday as the late Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, was laid to rest at the National Cemetery in Abuja.
The ceremony marked the end of a distinguished military career that spanned decades, leaving a legacy of service and patriotism.
The burial concluded two days of funeral rites that commenced earlier in Lagos. Lagbaja’s casket, draped in Nigeria’s national colors of green and white, arrived at the cemetery at approximately 3:00 PM in a white funeral wagon following a funeral service held at the National Christian Centre in Abuja.
The interment ceremony, which lasted over two hours, was conducted with full military honors. His body was lowered into the earth at exactly 4:41 PM amid a 21-gun salute and the somber sound of the last post.
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The preceding day, a service of songs was held at the Army Headquarters Garrison Parade Ground in Mogadishu Cantonment, Abuja, where family, friends, colleagues, and dignitaries paid glowing tributes to the late General.
Earlier on Thursday, his body had arrived in Abuja aboard a Nigerian Air Force aircraft, landing at the Presidential Wing of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport at 12:15 PM.
Tinubu Confers National Honour On Late Lagbaja
In another development, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who attended the burial, announced a posthumous national honor for the late Army Chief.
Lagbaja was conferred with the prestigious title of Commander of the Federal Republic (CFR) in recognition of his exceptional service to the nation.
In his remarks, President Tinubu described Lagbaja as a “dedicated and selfless patriot whose contributions to Nigeria’s security will never be forgotten.” The President extended his heartfelt condolences to the late COAS’ family and the Nigerian Armed Forces.
Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja’s passing has left an indelible void in Nigeria’s military leadership. Colleagues hailed him as a “strategic leader,” while tributes from soldiers highlighted his unwavering commitment to improving their welfare and operational readiness.
His burial was attended by top government officials, military brass, and representatives of international organizations.
As the casket was lowered, tears flowed freely from those who had known the late General, marking the final chapter of an illustrious life dedicated to the service of the nation.