Former President Muhammadu Buhari has mourned the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Taoreed Lagbaja, describing him as a patriot and an outstanding officer who served the nation with utmost diligence.

Buhari said this in a statement on Wednesday, November 6, 2024.

The former president said he was shocked by the news of Lagbaja’s death, adding that Nigeria had lost one of its finest soldiers.

Lagbaja, who was appointed Chief of Army Staff by President Bola Tinubu in June 2023, died on Tuesday night at the age of 56.

Buhari stated: “When I was the Commander-in-Chief, Lagbaja, as one of the commanders of army, caught my attention as one of the bravest officers who served the nation with utmost devotion.

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“In the various frontlines of internal security operations, including Operation Zaki in Benue State, Lafiya Dole in Borno, Udoka in Southeast Nigeria, and Operation Forest Sanity across Kaduna and Niger States, General Lagbaja left no one in doubt about his military capabilities. He left his indelible footprints as a professional soldier and inspiring commander wherever he served.

“I pray to the Almighty to repose of his soul and reward his courageous services to the Nigerian Army and the nation.”

The former president further extended his condolences to the “family of deceased, the Nigerian Army, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and the government and the entire people of the country.”

The Star