The body of the late Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, is set to be flown to Abuja today as final arrangements for his burial intensify.
Lt. Gen. Lagbaja, who passed away earlier this week, is remembered as a committed leader whose tenure was marked by significant strides in military operations and the welfare of soldiers.
According to Daily Sun, the body will be transported from the military hospital in Lagos to Murtala Muhammed International Airport, where a brief, solemn ceremony will be held to honour his legacy.
The body will then be flown to Abuja, where official observances and private funeral rites will precede his final interment.
Tributes have poured in from across Nigeria, with military personnel, public officials, and citizens expressing condolences. President Bola Tinubu, in a statement, described the late General as a true patriot dedicated to Nigeria’s peace and unity.
“He embodied the spirit of selfless service. His contributions to Nigeria’s security and unity will be remembered for generations to come,” President Tinubu remarked.
Lt. Gen. Lagbaja’s tenure was distinguished by initiatives focused on soldier welfare and strengthening military operations against insurgents in northern Nigeria. His passing has left the military and the nation in mourning.
In Abuja, a series of ceremonial events are scheduled, including an official lying-in-state at the Nigerian Army Headquarters, providing an opportunity for military personnel and the public to pay their respects.
A closed service is also planned, which will be attended by family members, high-ranking officials, and dignitaries.
The ceremony at Lagos airport will reflect military tradition, serving as a final salute to an officer who devoted his life to Nigeria’s defence. Upon arrival in Abuja, further rites will be held as the nation bids farewell to a distinguished leader.
