Abuja: The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, has described the late Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, as a courageous soldier, a man of faith, and a champion of troops’ welfare. Oluyede stated this on Sunday at the One Year Remembrance Church Service held in honour of the late army chief in Abuja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the late Lagbaja lived an exemplary life worthy of emulation, both as a professional soldier and a devout Christian whose faith guided his conduct in service and in life. Oluyede noted that Lagbaja’s courage in battle, empathy for others, and generosity reflected his deep faith and strong sense of justice. He remarked on how the event was a celebration of Lagbaja’s legacy, highlighting his qualities as a soldier and a devout follower of Christ.
Oluyede expressed his belief that the late army chief was resting peacefully in heaven and emphasized that Lagbaja’s legacy of dedication and compassion would continue to inspire those he left behind. He offered prayers for the continued protection and comfort of Lagbaja’s family and assured them of his personal support, committing to stand by them.
The CDS also commended the Chief of Army Staff for honouring the memory of his predecessor and the clergy for their inspiring message, expressing gratitude to all attendees of the memorial.
In his sermon titled ‘A Good Soldier of Jesus Christ’, the Acting Director, Chaplaincy Services (Protestant), Nigerian Army, Lt.-Col. Bitrus Nyam, praised the late Lagbaja as gallant operationally. Nyam, referencing 2 Timothy 2:1-4, highlighted Lagbaja’s exemplary adherence to the demands of scripture, noting his focus and strength in faith.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the church service was attended by two former CDS, retired Gen. Lucky Irabor and Gen. Christopher Musa, along with their wives. Oluyede’s wife and President of the Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association (DEPOWA) also attended, alongside Mrs. Mariya, the widow of the late Lagbaja, and Mrs. Safiyah Shaibu, wife of the Chief of Army Staff and President of the Nigerian Army Officers Wives Association (NAOWA), among other serving and retired officers.
NAN recalls that the Nigerian Army also held a Jumat prayer session for the late COAS on Friday at the same Mogadishu Cantonment, where the current COAS, Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, paid glowing tribute to the late Lagbaja.