Military officers and civil society groups gathered in Lagos to honour the late Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja.
The Nigerian Army and the Prayer and Support for the Nigerian Armed Forces have called for sustained efforts to end insecurity across the country. This appeal was made during the second memorial service held for the late Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, in Lagos state.
The solemn remembrance event took place at the Maria Lagbaja Event Centre located within the TA Lagbaja Cantonment in Ikeja. Family members, friends, civil society organisations, and military personnel gathered to celebrate the life and legacy of the distinguished general who passed away recently, according to information published by punchng.
During the gathering, participants distributed palliatives to the widows of fallen heroes and urged the public to maintain continuous support for serving military personnel. Speakers at the event emphasized the need for collective action to completely eradicate security challenges in Nigeria.
Honouring The Legacy Of Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja
Representing the General Officer Commanding of the 81 Division, Major General Adebayo Babalola, the Commander of the 81 Division Garrison, Brigadier General Ahmed Getso, praised the late military leader. He described Lagbaja as a dedicated patriot whose career exemplified exceptional courage and professional excellence.
Getso noted that Lagbaja joined the Nigerian Defence Academy as part of the 39th Regular Course in 1987 before gaining commission into the Nigerian Army Infantry Corps in 1992. Throughout his active service, the late general held numerous command and staff positions prior to his appointment as Chief of Army Staff in June 2023.
Reflecting On Internal Security Operations In Nigeria
The Commander of the 9 Brigade, Brigadier General Ayokunle Owolabi, stated that the memorial service offered serving officers a chance to reflect on Lagbaja's remarkable military career. Owolabi highlighted the late general's active participation in critical internal security operations aimed at restoring peace.
Owolabi specifically mentioned operations such as Zaki, Lafiya Dole, Udoka, and Forest Sanity as key assignments led by the late army chief. He urged current soldiers to emulate Lagbaja by demonstrating strict discipline, operational readiness, and unwavering loyalty to the nation.
Supporting Families And Widows Of Fallen Heroes
Ambassador Mary Abayomi-Fatile, convener of the support group, described Lagbaja as a caring father figure who consistently placed national interests above personal considerations. She emphasized that his tenure was defined by a resolute commitment to peace and stability.
The event concluded with special prayers dedicated to Lagbaja and other fallen heroes who lost their lives in the line of duty. Organizers also distributed food items and palliatives to the widows of deceased soldiers, stressing that the sacrifices made by their families must never be forgotten.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja?
Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja was Nigeria's 27th Chief of Army Staff, appointed by President Bola Tinubu in June 2023, and a career soldier known for his courage and dedication.
When and where did the memorial service take place?
The second memorial service took place at the Maria Lagbaja Event Centre within the TA Lagbaja Cantonment in Ikeja, Lagos state, drawing numerous military and civilian dignitaries.
Who organized the remembrance ceremony for the late Army Chief?
The event was jointly organized by the Nigerian Army and the Prayer and Support for the Nigerian Armed Forces and other security agencies to honour his service.
Who succeeded Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja?
Following his passing in November 2024 at the age of 56, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja was succeeded as Chief of Army Staff by Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede.
