The body of the late Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, has arrived in Abuja, where he will be laid to rest on Friday.
The Nigerian Air Force plane, NAF 918, carrying the late COAS’s remains, landed at the presidential wing of Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport at around 12:15 p.m. on Thursday, after departing Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos at about 11 a.m.
Upon arrival in Abuja, a solemn guard of honour was held as the late COAS’s body was escorted along a red carpet, accompanied by Nigeria’s top military officials in a tribute to his service.
Lt. Gen. Lagbaja, who held the position of Chief of Army Staff for one year and four months following his appointment by President Bola Tinubu in June 2023, will be interred at the National Military Cemetery in Abuja.
President Tinubu announced his passing last week, following an illness in Lagos.
Born on February 28, 1968, Lagbaja’s career was distinguished by his dedication to national security and his contributions to strengthening the Nigerian Army. His passing has left the military and nation in mourning, with tributes pouring in from colleagues, public officials, and citizens alike.