COAS Lagbaja’s death a colossal loss to Nigeria — GOC

The General Officer Commanding 81 Division of the Nigerian Army, Maj. Gen. Farouk Minjiyawa, has described the death of the late Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, as a colossal loss to the Nigerian Army and the nation as a whole.

He made this remark on Wednesday when members of the Prayer and Support for the Nigerian Armed Forces and Other Security Agencies paid a condolence visit to his office in Lagos.

Minjiyawa noted that the legacy of the late officer would remain in the memories of Army personnel, in particular, and the Nigerian Armed Forces, in general, through his significant contributions and achievements.

This comes as the funeral rites are set to begin on Thursday.

He further stated that the late Lagbaja was a visionary leader who dedicated himself to the service of the Army and the nation.

He said: “Lt. Gen. Lagbaja was a great leader with great vision, dedicated to the Nigerian Army and the nation as a whole. He was a transformational figure who served with diligence, and his efforts will never be forgotten.
We pray for the repose of his soul and for his family. We will continue with the legacy he left behind.”

The convener of the group, Mary Abayomi-Fatile, who led the group in an emotionally charged atmosphere, described Lagbaja as an astute professional with a strong focus on human capacity building and development.

She added that his transformational work could be seen around Army barracks, particularly in terms of infrastructure and welfare improvements.

She said, “The late former COAS drove the vision and provided guidance that led to the establishment of this advocacy group. Late Lt. Gen. Lagbaja was a great leader with vision, and a transformational leader who served with diligence. His efforts will never be forgotten.”

She explained that the purpose of the advocacy group was to collaborate with the Armed Forces, promote their achievements, and raise public awareness of their sacrifices in safeguarding the country.

She noted that several town hall meetings had been held nationwide, helping citizens understand that the fight against insurgency and other threats is a shared responsibility, not one for the military and other security agencies alone.

“Members of the advocacy group include professionals from the media industry, film actors, former national footballers, and the Nigeria National Supporters Club,” she added.

The PUNCH reports that Lagbaja, who passed away on 5 November, will be buried on Friday.