President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has conferred the posthumous national honour of Commander of the Federal Republic (CFR) on the late Chief of Army Staff, Lt-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, in recognition of his exceptional service to the nation.
The conferment was announced on Friday during the burial ceremony of the late Army Chief in Abuja.
Addressing the solemn gathering, President Tinubu extolled Lagbaja’s virtues, describing him as a patriot, a trusted advisor, and one of his most remarkable appointees.
“Throughout his military career, his legacy of service will be cherished forever,” Tinubu said. “As an eternal symbol of our appreciation, I have granted the late Chief of Army Staff the posthumous National Honour of Commander of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
“I invite his wife, Maria, to collect the posthumous Honour of Commander of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”
The president lauded Lagbaja’s commitment to duty, describing him as a soldier who embodied the finest ideals of his profession and displayed an unwavering dedication to safeguarding Nigeria.
“Lagbaja was a true soldier, a general, and an officer whose commitment to the nation he loved was singular and undiluted,” Tinubu noted.
“He was more than I could have hoped for. He embodied the finest ideas of a patriot and a soldier. He had an abiding faith in the capability and readiness of our Armed Forces to save and keep us,” the President added.
A Legacy of Leadership and Service
President Tinubu praised the late Army Chief for his exceptional leadership, clear vision, and care for the welfare of his subordinates.
“He displayed uncommon valour in the charge of his duty and the administration of the rank and file, for he cared about their welfare and that of their families.
“He was a man of prudent action who cared more for his nation and for those who served under him than he ever did for himself,” Tinubu stated.
The president also acknowledged Lagbaja’s contributions to national security and his dedication to defending Nigeria’s constitutional democracy.
“Lieutenant General Lagbaja, our nation has indeed lost a leader who truly distinguished himself as a thoroughbred professional soldier.
“For me, he was a trusted advisor whose formidable intellect and breadth of knowledge served this nation well,” Tinubu said.
A Call to Honour His Memory
Acknowledging the profound sense of loss, President Tinubu urged members of the Armed Forces to honour Lagbaja’s memory by continuing their vital work in defending the nation.
“To you, dear gallant officers, please do not let death defeat us. Hold your heads high in memory of your Army Chief.
“At this moment, he would have urged you to honour him by pressing on gallantly with your unfinished business,” Tinubu urged.
The president reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting the Armed Forces and their families, pledging unwavering support for their efforts to protect the nation.
“As the Commander-in-Chief, I renew my pledge to you today that the country will always support you and your families as you defend and protect our nation,” Tinubu concluded.
A Nation Mourns
Lt-Gen. Lagbaja, who served as Chief of Army Staff under President Tinubu’s administration, was widely regarded as a dedicated and professional officer.
His untimely demise has left a void in the Armed Forces and the hearts of many Nigerians who admired his leadership and patriotism.
The conferment of the CFR honour serves as a lasting tribute to his legacy and an enduring symbol of the nation’s gratitude for his service.
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