The funeral service for the late Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, who passed away at 56 on November 5, was held at the National Christian Centre, Abuja.
The remains of the late Army Chief arrived at the church at 11:17 a.m. in a military motorcade. The solemn procession was led by the military ‘pipe band’ and horsemen.
Dignitaries, including Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, joined the service to pay their final respects.
Also in attendance were the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, other service chiefs, and several officers and personnel of the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
During her remarks, the First Lady commended Lagbaja’s contributions to the nation, describing him as an “exemplified man.”
“He had fought the good fight, he had finished his place. He kept the faith. Henceforth laid up for him a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, shall give him at that table.
“And I believe he has received his crown. My thoughts and prayers are with his wife, Mrs Maria, children, family, friends, colleagues and associates.
“May Almighty God comfort and grant him and all the comfort and grant of the family members. May his gentle soul rest in peace,” she said.
Delivering a sermon titled “The Life of Victory,” Lt.-Col. T.E. Ogbonyomi, Director, Chaplaincy Services (Army), reflected on the late Army Chief’s service and dedication.
Ogbonyomi highlighted Lagbaja’s transformative leadership, which significantly improved the motivation and effectiveness of the Nigerian Army in defending the nation.
He noted that the late COAS introduced various initiatives that bolstered the Army’s operational success and left a legacy of excellence, in alignment with scriptural teachings.
Prayers were offered for the repose of Lagbaja’s soul, as well as for his family and the Nigerian Army.
The late COAS is scheduled to be laid to rest at 2:00 p.m. at the National Military Cemetery, with President Bola Tinubu and other top government officials expected to attend the interment ceremony.
Post A Comment: