Tinubu confers posthumous CFR on Lagbaja

President Bola Tinubu has conferred a posthumous National Honor on the late Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, for his bravery, loyalty and service to the nation.

Tinubu announced the conferment of the Commander of the Federal Republic (CFR) on Lagbaja during the burial ceremony of the late Army Chief yesterday.

Lagbaja, who was appointed by the President on June 19, 2023, with other Service Chiefs, died on November 5, 2024.

The remains of Lagbaja were buried at the National Military Cemetery in Abuja amidst tributes, eulogies, and a solemn guard of honour. The burial ceremony was attended by President Bola Tinubu and Nigeria’s top military leaders and government officials, who gathered to pay their last respects to the fallen hero.

The event was a culmination of a series of ceremonies held in Lagbaja’s honour, including a service of songs, which highlighted his exceptional leadership and dedication to the Nigerian Army.

Tinubu described Lagbaja as “a trusted advisor, a man of prudent action who cared about the nation and men who served under him.”

The President also described the late Army Chief as “a true soldier, a general and officer who symbolised the best of his profession and whose commitment to the nation he loved was singular and undiluted.”

Tinubu said: “He was more than I could have hoped for. He was one of my best appointments. Lieutenant General Lagbaja embodied the finest ideas of a patriot and a soldier. He had an abiding faith in the capability and readiness of our Armed Forces to save and keep us.”

President Tinubu said Lagbaja had a clear understanding about the role of the military in securing and defending our country, its people, and their hard-won constitutional democracy.

Tinubu added: “He displayed uncommon valor in the discharge of his duty and in the administration of the rank and file for he cared about their welfare and that of their families.

“Lieutenant General Lagbaja, our nation has indeed lost a regent who truly distinguished himself as a thoroughbred professional soldier.

“Throughout his military career, his legacy of service will be cherished forever. As an eternal symbol of our appreciation, I have granted the late Chief of Army Staff, the posthumous National Honor of Commander of the Federal Republic of Niger, CFR. I invite his wife, Maria, to collect the posthumous Honor of Commander of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (CFR).