Around 12:15 p.m. on Thursday, the Nigerian Air Force aircraft, NAF 918, carrying the late COAS’s remains, landed at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport’s presidential wing.
Around 11 a.m., the plane took off from Lagos’s Murtala Muhammed International Airport, the starting point for the trip to Abuja.
Nigeria’s military officials and top brass were present as the late COAS’s remains was escorted down a red carpet upon his arrival in Abuja, where a sad guard of honor was performed in remembrance of his service.
The National Military Cemetery in Abuja will be the final resting place for Lt. Gen. Lagbaja, who was appointed Chief of Army Staff by President Bola Tinubu in June 2023 and held the position for a year and four months.
Following a period of illness in Lagos, President Tinubu announced his death last week.
Lagbaja was born on February 28, 1968. His military career was distinguished by his commitment to the country’s defense and his important contributions to the Nigerian Army’s fortification.
As tributes from coworkers, public figures, and residents continue to stream in, his passing has left the military and the country in sadness.
