“Fearless commander” – CDS Oluyede leads glowing tributes to late Lagbaja

By Ayorinde Oluokun/Abuja

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede has described former Chief of Army Staff General Taoreed Lagbaja as a fearless commander, compassionate leader and consummate patriot whose unwavering devotion to duty and love for his troops remain indelible in the annals of the Nigerian Army.

Oluyede spoke at a solemn interdenominational memorial service held in his honour at the All Saints’ Military Church (Protestant), Mogadishu Cantonment, Abuja on Sunday.

The event, marking one year since the passing of General Lagbaja on 5 November 2024, was filled with deep reflection and heartfelt remembrance for a soldier whose life epitomized courage, humility and service to the nation.

The late Lagbaja was fondly remembered as a visionary leader, a disciplined officer, and a patriot whose selfless service and enduring legacy continue to inspire generations of soldiers across the Nigerian Armed Forces at the event.

Speaking further at the event, Oluyede who succeeded Lagbaja as COAS, noted that Lagbaja’s leadership was defined by integrity, empathy and uncommon commitment to the welfare of personnel and the unity of the nation.

General Oluyede extended the condolences of the Armed Forces to the Lagbaja family, praying for God’s continued strength and comfort.

He reaffirmed that the legacy of the late Army Chief would continue to guide and inspire the Nigerian Army and the Armed Forces toward greater professionalism and national service.

Delivering the sermon, the Acting Director, Chaplain Services (Protestant), Lieutenant Colonel Bitrus Nyam, extolled the virtues of the late COAS.

He urged officers and soldiers to emulate his life of faith, dedication and patriotism. He described General Lagbaja as a faithful soldier of Christ, a loving father and a leader who served both God and country with humility and honour.

Highlights of the service included special prayers and thanksgiving for the family of the late Chief of Army Staff, as well as moments of solemn reflection in his memory.

The event was also attended by the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, alongside former Service Chiefs and senior officers of the Armed Forces of Nigeria who all paid glowing tributes to late Lagbaja.

Also present at the event were former Chiefs of Defence Staff, Generals LEO Irabor (Rtd) and Christopher Musa (Rtd), the representative of the Chief of Army Staff, Commander Army Headquarters Garrison, Major General Maxwell Dangana, the wife of the late COAS, Mrs. Mariya Abiodun Lagbaja, President Defence and Police Officers Wives Association and presidents of sister organisations and members of the Lagbaja family.

Also present were members of 39 Regular Course senior officers serving and retired, principal staff officers from Defence and Service Headquarters, spouses of officers and soldiers as well as officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Army.