The body of the Chief of Army Staff Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja has been laid to rest at the National military cemetery in Abuja.
Following the funeral service held at the National Christian Centre, the body of the departed Chief of Army Staff Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja arrived the National military cemetery and conved to the grave site by the burial party.
The last post signifying that a soldier has gone to a final rest sounded before a minute of silence was observed in honour of the late Army Chief.
The Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru, in a remark at the ceremony said Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja’s commitment to service was unwavering through out his distinguished career which reflects the highest honour and core values of the Nigerian Army.
“General Lagbaja’s legacy is defined by his dedication to defend Nigeria, the commitment to troops walfare, a testament of his leadership
“He was a man of integrity and honour, who dedicated his life to service and did so passionately”
He urged members of the Armed Forces to remain focus and resilient in the face of challenges as they forged ahead in carrying out their duties of defending the nation.
Earlier, the chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, described the Chief of Army Staff as one who has distinguished himself as a soldier and a leader, understood the complexities of modern warfare while maintaining human face.
He said General Lagbaja led with integrity that earned him the trust of subordinates and coleagues.
“His ability to inspire those around him is unparalleled, let’s therefore honour his memory by embibing his virtues, ensuring his sacrifice to service are not in vein. Farewell gallant soldier friend and soldier, our warrior” stated CDS.
The Acting Chief of Army Staff Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede who delivered the funeral oration highlighting the life, time and service of the General Lagbaja.
The National Flag was presented to the next of kin, shortly followed by the lowering of the casket, the laying of wreath by the President and Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, followed by the vice president, among other dignitaries who took turns to lay their wreath at the solemn ceremony.
The tradional firing of the 3 volleys symbolising the ultimate sacrifice made and the firing of 19 gun salute was followed by the reveille.
The funeral witnessed a mass turn out of government funtionaries, members of the diplomatic Corp, serving and retired armed forces and other services personnel, family, friend and well wishers, as well as Nigerians from all works of life.
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