The National Security Adviser (NSA), Malam Nuhu Ribadu, has hailed the late Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, as one of Nigeria’s finest military officers. Ribadu made this statement on Wednesday during a condolence visit to the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, and the Acting COAS, Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, at the Defence and Army Headquarters in Abuja.
Describing Lt.-Gen. Lagbaja as an exceptional leader, Ribadu emphasized his loyalty, dedication, trustworthiness, and unwavering commitment to Nigeria’s Armed Forces. “Lt.-Gen. Lagbaja was deeply devoted to his soldiers and had an immense love for the Armed Forces and his country,” Ribadu stated, calling him a true patriot.
Addressing the loss, Ribadu said, “We lost one of our best. Lt.-Gen. Lagbaja was an incredible man, and though he has been called to a higher level, we will continue to pray for his family and honor his legacy.” He further expressed gratitude for Lagbaja’s life of service, dedication, and leadership.
Ribadu also conveyed condolences to President Bola Tinubu, acknowledging the profound impact of the loss on the nation’s leadership. “This is a heavy loss for the President and for all of us, but we are thankful for the life he led and the service he gave to Nigeria,” he added.
Ribadu was accompanied by Maj.-Gen. Adamu Laka, the National Coordinator of the National Counter-terrorism Centre, along with other top officials from the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA). During his visit, he held meetings with both the CDS and the Acting COAS and signed condolence registers at the Defence and Army Headquarters.