President Tinubu Orders Flags at Half-Mast to Mourn COAS Lagbaja

President Tinubu has directed that flags be flown at half-mast across Nigeria to honor the late Chief of Army Staff, Lt General Taoreed Lagbaja. Learn more about the national tribute and remembrance.

President Bola Tinubu has ordered that the national flags of Nigeria be flown at half-mast for a period of seven days throughout the nation in remembrance of the late Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja.

Lieutenant General Lagbaja, who was appointed by President Tinubu on June 19, 2023, reportedly passed away on Tuesday night following a prolonged illness. The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, conveyed the president’s sentiments in a statement released on Wednesday by his office’s Director of Information & Public Relations, Segun Imohiosen.

Akume stated, “President Bola Tinubu has expressed his sorrow at the passing of the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, who died at the age of 56 after a brief illness.

READ ALSO: Chief of Army Staff, Lt General Taoreed Lagbaja, Passes Away

“The President has mandated that national flags be flown at half-mast across the country for seven days in tribute to the late Army chief. He deeply appreciates the contributions of the deceased to the nation and extends his condolences to the family, wishing them strength in this difficult time.”

In related news, Defence Ministers Mohammed Badaru and Bello Matawalle have expressed their condolences to the president, the military, and the family of Lagbaja following his death.

In a statement issued by the Ministry’s spokesperson, Henshaw Ogubike, the ministers characterized Lagbaja’s passing as a significant loss to his family, the Army, and the nation as a whole. “The news of his passing has left us in shock at the Ministry of Defence, as our collaborative efforts with him were commendable; he demonstrated a spirit of camaraderie and cooperation in fulfilling our responsibilities.

“The late Chief of Army Staff made substantial contributions to internal security operations throughout Nigeria and displayed a commendable level of professionalism. He will be profoundly missed by his family, the military, and the nation, as he served with unwavering commitment and dedication,” the statement concluded.