By Abba – Eku Onyeka, Abuja
The Chairmen, Senate Committees on Army (SCA) and that of Defence, (SCD), and the Minority Leader, Senators: Abdulaziz Yar’adua, Ahmad Lawan and Abba Morro, have respectively mourned the death of the Chief of Army Staff (CAS), Lieutenant General Toareed Abiodun Lagbaja.
This was contained in a separate press statement from the two committee chairmen, Emmanuel Eche’Ofun John,
Media Adviser to the Senate Minority Leader Wednesday.
According to Yar’adua, SCA is deeply saddened to learn about the untimely demise of, the CAS, adding that their thoughts are with his family, colleagues, and the entire Nigerian Army during this difficult time.
He went on to say that Lagbaja’s unwavering dedication to the Nigerian Army and his country has left an indelible mark. His career from the day he joined the army, he went on, epitomized courage and patriotism. According to him, his exceptional leadership and vision significantly shaped the army’s operations, ensuring the safety and well-being of Nigerians. He therefore stated that his legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire and motivate troops to carry on his exemplary work.
“We all acknowledge General Lagbaja’s profound impact on the army’s development. His initiatives demonstrated a steadfast commitment to training, capacity building, and troops welfare. The Nigerian Army has lost a true leader and passionate advocate for its growth.To the officers, soldiers, and families of the Nigerian Army, we offer our sincerest sympathies. May you find strength and comfort in knowing General Lagbaja’s contributions will never be forgotten. His memory will continue to inspire and motivate us all.”
Similarly, Senator Lawan, the Senate Committee of Defense said he learnt the demise of the CAS with a heavy heart that I learned of the passing. According to him, on behalf of the Senate Committee on Defence, I extend our deepest condolences to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Gwabin Musa; the family of the deceased, the Nigerian Army, and the entire nation.
He therefore went on to say that Lt. Gen. Lagbaja was a dedicated and patriotic officer who served the country with distinction. As CAS, he played a significant role in the fight against insurgency and other security challenges confronting our nation. His leadership and commitment to the safety and well-being of Nigerians will be sorely missed.
“During his tenure, Lagbaja initiated and implemented several innovative strategies that significantly improved the operational capabilities of the Nigerian Army. He was instrumental in enhancing the welfare and morale of troops, ensuring that they were adequately equipped and trained to effectively discharge their duties.
“This is a great loss to the nation. His experience, resolve and patriotism that characterized his illustrious career will be deeply missed. The Senate Committee on Defence is committed to honoring the memory of Lt. Gen. Lagbaja by ensuring that the Nigerian Army remains a formidable and effective force capable of safeguarding our nation.”
On his own, the Senate Minority Leader, who represents Benue South at the Senate, on behalf of the Senate Minority Caucus, mourns the demise of the late CAS Lagbaja. Describing the late COAS as a gallant and successful officer who gave his all to the country and died in active service, Morro said that the CAF saw a great push against terrorism, banditry and kidnapping that are plaguing the country.
He said as the nation mourns the untimely demise of the gallant officer, he hopes that his successor would fit perfectly into the shoes left behind and frontally tackle the security challenges confronting the country and continue to protect her territorial integrity, to achieve the late General’s dreams of a secured and peaceful nation.
Senator Moro therefore extended his heartfelt condolences to the wife of the deceased, Mrs Mariya Abiodun Lagbaja, the entire family, and the Nigerian Army. He charged them to be consoled with the knowledge that the late General lived an impactful life and has gone to rest with his creator.
