By PAMELA EBOH, Awka

Anambra State Governor Prof Chukwuma Soludo has expressed profound sadness on the death of Lieutenant General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, Chief of Army Staff of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, on Tuesday at the age of 56.

In a condolence message signed by the Governor’s Press Secretary,, Christian Aburime, he extended his deepest condolences to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Nigerian Army, and the bereaved family of the late General Lagbaja on the irreparable loss.

Soludo further described General Lagbaja’s untimely departure at the age of 56 as a huge loss to the Nigerian Army and the nation in general.

The Governor reiterated that General Lagbaja’s distinguished military career, marked by his exceptional service and dedication to our nation’s security, serves as a tribute to his uncompromising commitment to Nigeria’s unity and progress.

He said, "As an alumnus of the prestigious U.S. Army War College, General Lagbaja brought unparalleled expertise to his role, serving with distinction in various capacities including as platoon commander in the 93 Battalion and the 72 Special Forces Battalion.

“His leadership in critical internal security operations, from Operation ZAKI in Benue State to Operations Lafiya Dole, Udoka, and Forest Sanity, further demonstrated his tactical acumen and relentless dedication to Nigeria’s peace and stability.”

The Governor further prayed God to grant the late General’s soul eternal rest and give his family the solace to bear the great loss.