Retired Lieutenant General Tukur Yusufu Buratai, former Chief of Army Staff and former Nigerian Ambassador to the Republic of Benin, has expressed profound sorrow over the death of Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, whom he described as a “true embodiment of discipline and dedication.”
In a statement issued on Thursday, Buratai highlighted the significant impact of Lagbaja’s leadership on the Nigerian Army and the nation at large.
“I am deeply saddened by the loss of Lt. Gen. Lagbaja,” Buratai stated, emphasising that his passing leaves a void not only in the Nigerian Army but throughout the country.
He extended condolences to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Lt. Gen. Lagbaja’s wife, Mrs. Mariyah Abiodun Lagbaja, Acting Chief of Army Staff Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, and the entire Nigerian Army.
Buratai prayed for Allah’s forgiveness for Lagbaja’s shortcomings and for his eternal rest.
Buratai recalled Lt. Gen. Lagbaja’s contributions during his own tenure as Chief of Army Staff. “I found him worthy of command,” he noted, mentioning Lagbaja’s appointments as Commander of 9 Brigade in Ikeja and later Commander of 2 Brigade in Uyo—positions Buratai himself once held.
Buratai also appointed Lagbaja to Army Headquarters as Director of Campaign Plan in 2020, commending him as a “strategic commander.”
Reflecting on Lagbaja’s legacy, Buratai said, “General Lagbaja’s leadership and vision have been instrumental in shaping the Nigerian Army into the formidable institution it is today.”
He praised Lagbaja’s dedication and service, which he believes will continue to inspire future generations of military personnel.
“In this difficult time, I pray that General Lagbaja’s family, friends, and colleagues find solace in the memories of his remarkable life and service,” Buratai concluded.
“Rest in peace, General Lagbaja. Your service to our great nation will never be forgotten,” he added.
