President Bola Tinubu has ordered that Nigeria’s national flags be flown at half-mast for seven days in honor of the late Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja.
The announcement comes following Lagbaja’s passing on Tuesday night after a brief illness.
The directive was made public by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, through a statement issued by Segun Imohiosen, the Director of Information and Public Relations.
The president conveyed his deep sadness over the loss and highlighted Lagbaja’s service to the nation.
“President Bola Tinubu has expressed profound sorrow over the death of the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, who passed away at the age of 56 after a brief illness,” Akume said.
“The President has directed that national flags be lowered to half-mast nationwide for seven days in his honor.
He deeply values the contributions of the late Army chief and extends his condolences to the bereaved family, hoping they find strength during this period.”
The Ministers of Defence, Mohammed Badaru and Bello Matawalle, have also conveyed their sympathies to President Tinubu, the military, and the family of the late General.
In a statement issued by the Defence Ministry’s spokesperson, Henshaw Ogubike, the ministers described Lagbaja’s passing as a significant loss for the Army and the entire country.
“We were shocked and saddened by the sudden passing of Lt. Gen. Lagbaja,” the statement read. “Our collaboration with him was marked by an exceptional spirit of camaraderie. He was deeply committed to ensuring the success of our mission.”
The ministers also praised Lagbaja’s critical role in advancing internal security operations across Nigeria, acknowledging his exceptional dedication and professionalism.
“His contributions to national security were substantial, and his unwavering professionalism earned the respect of colleagues and leaders alike,” they added. “His presence will be sorely missed by his family, the military, and the nation.”
The late Army chief was appointed by Tinubu on June 19, 2023.
