Lagbaja: FEC meeting put off in honour of Army Chief, flags to fly at half-mast

President Bola Tinubu has postponed this week’s Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting to pay tribute to the late Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, who passed away on Tuesday night in Lagos after battling an undisclosed illness.

The meeting, originally set for Wednesday, will now take place at a later date, according to Persecondnews.

In a statement released by Mr. Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, President Tinubu expressed his heartfelt condolences to the Lagbaja family and the Nigerian Armed Forces.

He also wished Lagbaja eternal peace and honoured his significant contributions to the nation.

As a mark of respect, President Tinubu has directed that flags be flown at half-mast nationwide for seven days in honour of the departed general.

“Initially scheduled for today, the council meeting was postponed in honour of Lt. General Taoreed Lagbaja, the Chief of Army Staff, who passed away on Tuesday night,” the statement adds.

“General Lagbaja served as the Chief of Army Staff from June 19, 2023, till his death on November 5, 2024.

“President Tinubu also ordered flags to be flown at half-staff nationwide for seven days in honour of the departed general.”

This gesture is a testament to the high esteem in which General Lagbaja was held.

General Lagbaja served as the Chief of Army Staff from June 19, 2023, until his untimely death on November 5, 2024.

His tenure was marked by significant contributions to the nation, and his legacy will be remembered and celebrated.

Onanuga noted that the postponement of the FEC meeting is a demonstration of the President’s commitment to honouring the memory of General Lagbaja.

The meeting will be rescheduled to a later date, which will be announced in due course.

In related development, President Tinubu had earlier confirmed the death of General Lagbaja and praised his service to the nation.

The president’s swift response to the news demonstrates his respect for the late general and his commitment to supporting the Nigerian Armed Forces.

“As the nation mourns the loss of Lagbaja, President Tinubu’s actions serve as a reminder of the importance of honouring those who have served the country with distinction.”

The Nigerian leader’s tribute to Lagbaja is a fitting recognition of his contributions to Nigeria’s security and well-being, Onanuga said.