The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, along with former Service Chiefs and senior officers of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, have paid heartfelt tribute to the late Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, OFR.
Tributes were paid on Sunday, 9 November 2025, during an interdenominational memorial service held at the All Saints’ Military Church (Protestant), Mogadishu Cantonment, Abuja.
The solemn event marked one year since the passing of the late General Lagbaja on 5 November 2024 and was filled with moments of deep reflection, prayer, and remembrance for a soldier whose life embodied courage, humility, and selfless service to the nation.
In his tribute, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, described the late General Lagbaja as a fearless commander, compassionate leader, and consummate patriot whose legacy continues to inspire the Nigerian Army. He noted that Lagbaja’s leadership was defined by integrity, empathy, and an uncommon devotion to the welfare of personnel and the unity of the country.
General Oluyede extended condolences on behalf of the Armed Forces to the Lagbaja family, praying for divine comfort and strength. He reaffirmed that the memory and values of the late Army Chief would continue to guide the Armed Forces toward excellence and national service.
Delivering the sermon, the Acting Director of Chaplain Services (Protestant), Lieutenant Colonel Bitrus Nyam, extolled the virtues of the late COAS, urging officers and soldiers to emulate his faith, dedication, and patriotism. He described General Lagbaja as a faithful soldier of Christ and a leader who served both God and country with humility and honour.
Highlights of the memorial service included special prayers and thanksgiving for the Lagbaja family, as well as moments of solemn reflection in his honour.
Dignitaries in attendance included the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede; 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; Mrs. Mariya Abiodun Lagbaja, wife of the late COAS; Presidents of DEPOWA and sister associations; members of the Lagbaja family; senior officers of the 39 Regular Course; and personnel from Defence and Service Headquarters.
Lieutenant General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja was fondly remembered as a visionary leader, disciplined officer, and patriotic soldier whose enduring legacy continues to inspire generations across the Nigerian Armed Forces.
