The remains of former chief of army staff, Maj.-Gen. Chris Alli, have been laid to rest at the National Military Cemetery, Abuja.
Alli, who died at the age of 79 in Lagos on Nov. 19, 2023, was Nigeria’s 15th chief of army staff from 1993 to 1994 under late head of state, Gen. Sani Abacha.
He later served as the military governor of Plateau from August 1985 to 1986 during the military regime of President lbrahim Babangida, as well as interim administrator of Plateau in 2004 under the civilian administration of President Olusegun Obasanjo.
In his remarks at the funeral yesterday, the minister of defence, Muhammed Badaru, said the deceased served Nigeria with dedication and worked for peace, development and unity of the country.
Badaru, who was represented by the chief of defence staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, added that ”the late former COAS achieved significant influence on professionalising and repositioning the army to be a force to reckon with in both regional and global scenes’’.
He added that the late general lived an exemplary life worthy of emulation.
“For Maj.-Gen. Muhammad Chris Alli, his transition has exerted marvelous memories of a loving father, brother, uncle, colleague, comrade and confidant.
“To many nationwide and overseas, the nostalgia in some social cycles sequel to his recent glorious passing on, underscores his legacy of enviable character, patriotism, love and service to Nigeria and Nigerians,” Badaru added.
The chief of army staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, said the deceased had demonstrated passion and devotion to duty throughout his lifetime, which was characterised by love for country and service to humanity.
According to him, Alli exhibited unrivalled sense of duty and dedication to service, and his love and passion were evident in all he did.
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