Late COAS Lagbaja's Body Arrives Abuja for Burial [PHOTOS]

Late COAS Taoreed Lagbaja's Body Arrives in Abuja for Burial

Lagbaja passed away on Tuesday night in Lagos after battling an undisclosed illness...

COAS Taoreed Lagbaja's remains arrive in Abuja for burial, as the nation prepares to pay its respects to the fallen military leader.

The body of Late Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, has arrived in Abuja aboard Nigerian Air Force aircraft, NAF 918, ahead of his burial scheduled for today, Friday, November 15. The aircraft touched down at the presidential wing of Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja on Thursday, November 14, after departing from Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos.

Lagbaja passed away on Tuesday night in Lagos after battling an undisclosed illness. He was 56 years old and had been the Chief of Army Staff since June 19, 2023, appointed by President Bola Tinubu. Before his death, there were rumors about his health, which the Nigerian Army dismissed, stating that he was receiving medical treatment abroad. However, his condition worsened, leading to President Tinubu appointing Olufemi Oluyede as acting COAS on October 30.

Highlights of Lagbaja's Life and Service:

Age: 56 years old at the time of death

Appointment as COAS: June 19, 2023, by President Bola Tinubu

Health Issues: Battled an undisclosed illness before passing away

Replacement: Olufemi Oluyede appointed as acting COAS on October 30

Lagbaja's legacy in the Nigerian military is marked by his commitment to fighting insurgency and terrorism. He played essential roles in significant internal security efforts, including Operations ZAKI in Benue State, Lafiya Dole in Borno, Udoka in the Southeast, and Operation Forest Sanity in Kaduna and Niger States.

Senior military officials gathered to pay their respects as the remains of Late Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, arrived in Abuja. The solemn ceremony was accompanied by a military band playing in honor of his service, setting the tone for a dignified farewell. Upon arrival, a guard of honor escorted the coffin, which was carried along a red carpet, allowing Nigeria's military leadership to pay their respects.

Lieutenant General Lagbaja's interment is scheduled to take place on Friday at the National Military Cemetery in Abuja, marking the final farewell to a dedicated servant of the nation. Tragically, Lagbaja passed away on Tuesday, November 5, in Lagos after a brief illness, the cause of which remains undisclosed. In response to his passing, President Bola Tinubu extended heartfelt condolences to Lagbaja's family and the Nigerian Armed Forces, acknowledging the profound impact of his service.

Funeral Arrangements:

Service of Songs and Funeral Service: Thursday, November 14, 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. at the National Christian Centre in Abuja

Interment: Friday at the National Military Cemetery in Abuja

This is a difficult time for the nation, and the outpouring of support demonstrates the respect and admiration for Lieutenant General Lagbaja's contributions to Nigeria's military.

Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja was a renowned military leader who served as the Chief of Army Staff for one year and four months, following his appointment by President Bola Tinubu in June 2023. Born on February 28, 1968, Lagbaja's illustrious military career spanned over three decades, beginning in 1987 when he enrolled in the Nigerian Defence Academy. He was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the Nigerian Infantry Corps on September 19, 1992, as part of the 39th Regular Course.

Throughout his distinguished career, Lagbaja held pivotal roles, including platoon commander in the 93 Battalion and the 72 Special Forces Battalion. His leadership expertise was instrumental in various high-profile security operations across Nigeria, such as:

Operation ZAKI in Benue State

Lafiya Dole in Borno

Udoka in the Southeast

Operation Forest Sanity in Kaduna and Niger States

A distinguished graduate of the U.S. Army War College, Lagbaja earned a Master's degree in Strategic Studies, demonstrating his commitment to advancing his military expertise and leadership skills.

Lieutenant General Lagbaja is survived by his loving wife, Mariya, and their two children. His legacy as a dedicated and accomplished military leader continues to inspire and influence the Nigerian Armed Forces.