…As Defence Ministry, DHQ Mourn Death Of COAS
….Police Shelves Some Engagement To Honour Late COAS
President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday directed that Nigeria’s national flags be flown at half mast for seven days across the country following the death of the nation’s Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja.
The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, disclosed this in a statement, by his office Director of Information & Public Relations, Segun Imohiosen.
The late COAS, 56, was announced dead on Wednesday after suffering from an undisclosed ailment.
The president in his latest remarks expressed his regret directing that “national flags be flown at half-mast throughout the country for seven days in honour of the departed Army chief.”
“He profoundly appreciates the services of the departed to the nation and wishes the family the fortitude to bear the great loss,” the statement read.
Similarly, the Ministry of Defence commiserated with the President and the family of the late COAS, describing his death as a great loss to his family, the Army and the nation at large.
The ministry disclosed this in a statement jointly issued by Minister of Defence, Mohammed Abubakar, Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle and the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Ibrahim Kana on Wednesday.
The ministry expressed its shock over the situation, reminiscing about the partnership it shared with the COAS while in active service.
“He exhibited the spirit of camaraderie and cooperation with us in the discharge of our mandate.
“The late Chief of Army Staff contributed in no small measure to the internal security operations across Nigeria and also exhibited a high level of professionalism.
“He will be greatly missed by the family, the Military and the nation as he served the nation with commitment and dedication,” the statement read.
The announcement of the COAS’ death came weeks after the federal government and the Nigerian Army dismissed rumours of his demise.
The Defence Headquarters on Wednesday disclosed that Lagbaja passed away on Tuesday, after a brief illness.
The Defence high command noted that the COAS until his death demonstrated exemplary leadership, spearheading the establishment of the Nigerian Army Aviation Wing and playing instrumental roles in multiple security operations across the country.
Appointed as the Chief of Army Staff on June 19, 2023, the Defence headquarters listed his contributions to include FOREST SANITATION in Kaduna and the Niger States, LAFIYA DOLE, ZAMAN LAFIYA and HADIN KAI in Borno, ZAKI in Benue, and UDOKA in the Southeast, amongst others.
Lagbaja’s 16-month tenure, according to the Defence high, showed his sterling performance, courage and steadfast commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s sovereignty.
“His enduring dedication and achievements will forever be remembered in the annals of the Nigerian Armed Forces and the nation at large,” the Defence headquarters said.
Meanwhile, the Nigeria Police Force announced the cancellation of all non-essential personal and social engagements and non-urgent commitments for the next two days following the death of the COAS.
The police in a statement on Wednesday described Lagbaja as a highly respected figure, known for his tireless efforts in combating insurgency, armed banditry, and violent extremism.
“His dedication to the Nigerian Army and the nation earned him great admiration. The Inspector-General’s gesture reflects the deep respect and appreciation for General Lagbaja’s remarkable service.
“The Nigeria Police Force extends its heartfelt condolences to Mr president and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and General Lagbaja’s family, colleagues, and loved ones during this difficult time. His legacy and commitment to Nigeria’s security will never be forgotten,” the police noted.