Tinubu Posthumously Confers CFR on Late Lt. Gen. Lagbaja

President Bola Tinubu has posthumously honored the late Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, with the prestigious Commander of the Federal Republic (CFR) award. The announcement was made during the solemn burial ceremony held on Friday, where dignitaries gathered to pay their last respects to the fallen military leader.

A Solemn Farewell

The burial ceremony began with the arrival of Lt. Gen. Lagbaja’s casket at approximately 3:00 p.m., transported in an ambulance and prepared by pallbearers. The event was attended by prominent figures, including Senate President Godswill Akpabio, House Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, and Chief of Defence Staff General Christopher Musa.

Other dignitaries included Acting Chief of Army Staff Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, Chief of Naval Staff Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, Chief of Air Staff Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, and Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun. Ministers of Defense, Abubakar Badaru and Bello Matawalle, along with the Comptroller-General of Customs and other officials, were also present.

Tinubu’s Tribute

Addressing the gathering, President Tinubu described Lt. Gen. Lagbaja as a dedicated officer whose sacrifices for Nigeria would not be forgotten. “Today, we bid farewell to one of Nigeria’s finest. Lt. Gen. Lagbaja was a man of noble character, a trusted adviser, and a soldier whose commitment to his country was unparalleled,” Tinubu said.

The President lamented Lagbaja’s untimely death, emphasizing that it occurred at a critical moment when his expertise and leadership were most needed. Tinubu pledged unwavering support for Lagbaja’s family and assured the Armed Forces of the nation’s continued commitment to their welfare.

“To his wife, Maria, and his children, we owe you a debt of gratitude for sharing him with us. His sacrifice will forever inspire those who serve,” Tinubu added.

Honoring a Legacy

Tinubu urged military officers not to let the tragedy dampen their spirits but to honor Lagbaja’s memory by continuing their mission with resilience and courage. “Hold your heads high in his memory. He would have wanted you to press on gallantly with your duties,” the President said.

He also called on the Armed Forces to uphold the values of courage, sacrifice, and leadership exemplified by Lagbaja. “His story of illustrious service will be told for generations. Lt. Gen. Lagbaja will forever reside in the pantheon of military grace,” Tinubu concluded.

A Life of Service

Earlier, Chief of Defence Staff General Christopher Musa described Lagbaja as a leader who combined intellect, bravery, and humanity. “He understood the complexities of modern warfare and embraced innovation without losing his humanity,” Musa said. He added that Lagbaja’s death had left a significant void in the Armed Forces and the nation.

A Nation Mourns

Lagbaja’s passing marks the loss of a respected soldier and patriot. As his casket was lowered and the national flag handed over to his next of kin, the ceremony served as a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who defend the nation.

With his life and legacy honored by the CFR award, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja’s contributions to Nigeria’s security and stability will remain an enduring inspiration for generations to come.