Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), Dr Dennis Otuaro, has expressed his condolences to President Bola Tinubu following the passing of Lt. Gen Taoreed Lagbaja, the Chief of Army Staff, who died while in active service.
In addition to President Tinubu, Otuaro also offered his sympathies to the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, on the loss of Nigeria’s 23rd Chief of Army Staff. His condolences were further extended to Defence Minister Badaru Abubakar, Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Christopher Musa, and Acting Chief of Army Staff Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede.
Otuaro conveyed his heartfelt messages in separate communications on Friday. In a statement released by his Special Assistant on Media, Mr. Igoniko Oduma, he referred to Lagbaja’s passing as “a tremendous loss to the Nigerian Army, the nation, and the global community.”
Reflecting on the late General’s commitment, Otuaro shared that he had witnessed Lagbaja’s unwavering dedication to Nigeria’s security and stability firsthand. He remarked, “General Lagbaja’s selfless service and leadership significantly contributed to shaping the Nigerian Army into the esteemed institution it is today.”
He added that Lagbaja’s legacy transcends his distinguished military career, highlighting him as a devoted patriot who tirelessly promoted peace and unity within Nigeria. Otuaro noted the General’s strong support for the PAP, emphasizing that his contributions to the program would be fondly remembered.
Otuaro extended his deepest sympathies to the family, friends, and colleagues of the late General Lagbaja, encouraging them to find comfort in the lasting impact of his remarkable life and service.