National Telescope national telescope newspaper
President Bola Tinubu has posthumously conferred the Commander of the Federal Republic (CFR) national honour on the late Chief of Army Staff, Lt-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, in recognition of his dedicated service to the nation.
The announcement was made during the funeral ceremony for the late Army Chief on Friday at the National Cemetery in Abuja.
President Tinubu, who attended the event to pay his respects, expressed deep admiration for Lt-Gen. Lagbaja’s distinguished military career and commitment to Nigeria.
“Throughout his military career, his legacy of service will be cherished forever. As an eternal symbol of our appreciation, I have granted the late Chief of Army Staff the posthumous National Honour of Commander of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. I invite his wife, Mariya, to collect the posthumous honour on his behalf,” the President stated.
President Tinubu described the late COAS as one of his best appointments, calling him “a true soldier, a general, and an officer who symbolised the best of his profession.”
He praised Lagbaja for his unwavering commitment to the nation, highlighting his deep sense of patriotism and dedication to the welfare of his soldiers.
“Lagbaja was more than I could have hoped for,” President Tinubu said. “He embodied the finest ideas of a patriot and a soldier. He had an abiding faith in the capability and readiness of our Armed Forces to defend our nation and keep us safe.”
The President further emphasised Lagbaja’s role as a trusted advisor, a man of action who always put the nation and the well-being of his troops first.
“He displayed uncommon courage and valor in the discharge of his duties, and in the way he cared for the rank and file of the Nigerian Army. He understood the military’s critical role in securing our nation and protecting our constitutional democracy,” Tinubu said.
President Tinubu continued, “Lieutenant General Lagbaja was a leader who truly distinguished himself as a thoroughbred professional soldier.
He was a trusted advisor whose intellect and knowledge served the nation well. More than that, he was a man who cared deeply for the nation and for those under his command.”
The President acknowledged the profound loss of Lt-Gen. Lagbaja, but reminded the nation’s military leaders and personnel to continue the work the late COAS had started.
“Although his passing is a great loss, we must not allow sorrow to defeat us,” Tinubu said. “To the gallant officers of our Armed Forces, I urge you to hold your heads high in memory of your Army Chief. At this moment, he would have encouraged you to honour him by pressing on with your duties and responsibilities.”
President Tinubu also renewed his commitment to supporting the Nigerian military, adding, “As the Commander-in-Chief, I pledge that the country will continue to support you and your families as you defend and protect this great nation.”
The late Lt-Gen. Lagbaja, who passed away on November 5, 2024, after a period of illness, is remembered for his exceptional leadership and dedication to duty. He is survived by his wife, Mariya, and their two children.
The posthumous award of the CFR, Nigeria’s highest national honour, is a fitting tribute to a man who gave his life to the service of the country and its people.
