A delegation from the Nigerian Army, led by Major General Kamal Yusuf, announced on Tuesday that President Bola Tinubu has directed a state burial for the late Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja. The announcement was made during a condolence visit to the Olobu of Ilobu, Oba Ashiru Olaniyan, at his palace in Osun State.
Major General Yusuf, a classmate of the late Lagbaja at the Nigerian Defence Academy, reflected on their early days together, recalling how they travelled by train from Osogbo to Kaduna to begin their military careers.
“Lagbaja was a gallant and pragmatic officer, a true combatant, which is why President Tinubu trusted him with the role of Chief of Army Staff,” he said.
During the visit, Yusuf informed Oba Olaniyan that the late General would rest at the National Military Cemetery in Abuja, where Nigeria honours its national heroes.
“Our visit here is to express our condolences and inform you of the burial plans. President Tinubu has directed that Lieutenant General Lagbaja be given a state burial,” Yusuf stated, adding that arrangements have been made to accommodate family members who wish to attend the ceremony.
Delivering a condolence letter from the Nigerian Army, Yusuf expressed hope that such tragic losses would not recur.
“Lagbaja’s dedication to duty and leadership from the front earned him steady promotions throughout his career, culminating in his appointment as Chief of Army Staff,” he noted.
Earlier, the Army delegation visited Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, at the Osun Government Secretariat in Abere.
Commending Tinubu’s decision for a state burial, Governor Adeleke described the late General as “a bright star of Osun and Nigeria dimmed too early.”
He praised the Army’s commitment to completing community projects initiated by Lagbaja in Ilobu, Ifon, and Erin Osun.
In a statement by his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, Governor Adeleke said, “I thank Mr. President for approving a state burial for our late brother. We also appreciate the Army’s commitment to completing the community projects initiated by General Lagbaja. We will continue to support these efforts.”
