Mariya Lagbaja, the widow of the late Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, has pledged undying love for her husband.
Mariya also reminisced on the connection she shared with her husband of nearly 17 years, describing their relationship as one built on friendship, love, and unwavering support.
In an emotional tribute to her late husband, included in the burial programme pamphlet, Mariya Lagbaja reflected on their time together.
iDeemlawful recall that Lagbaja passed away on November 5 and was buried on Friday, November 15, 2024.
Reflecting on their nearly 17 years of marriage and his indelible impact on her life. She expressed gratitude for the time they spent together, acknowledging that, although their time was cut short, the memories they made would always be cherished.
“Meeting you over 17 years ago left an indelible mark on my life,” she continued. “Our friendship stood the test of time and meant the world to me. We shared a bond that was meant to last a lifetime, and though it was cut short, I will forever treasure every moment with you, my shining light.”
Mariya fondly recalled their journey, beginning on December 29, 2007, the day they committed to spend their lives together.
She described her late husband as a man who loved and cared for her deeply, a source of strength, joy, and inspiration.
“On December 29, 2007, we chose each other for a lifelong journey,” she wrote. “But death has taken away the man who loved, cared for, and cherished me with all he had.
“You carried me when no one was watching, wiped my tears when I couldn’t hold them back, and your shoulder was my strength to face the world. You brought so much beauty and joy to my life.”
Mariya emphasized that her love for her husband would last forever. “In a world of ordinary moments, you created extraordinary happiness for me.
“As I look back on how great, kind, compassionate, and generous you were to me, I say with certainty that my love for you is eternal. I will hold our memories close to my heart, and I will cherish them always because your love and support were my rock and guiding force. If only you could hear me now… I love you infinitely.”
Mariya also shared how Lagbaja was the spiritual leader of their home, teaching them to love and serve God. “As the spiritual leader of our home, you taught us to love Jesus and serve Him in spirit and truth.
“Your joy in the presence of God, no matter your status, gives me the hope that you are in a better place, doing the same with the host of heaven.”
Despite his demanding schedule, Mariya praised Lagbaja for his devotion as a father, always making time for their children. “You were a true and dedicated father.
“Even with your busy job, you always found time for Emmanuel and Dara. Whether helping them with schoolwork or playing with them, those moments can never be taken away. To us, you are our hero, and your legacy lives on through our children. They promise to make you proud.”
“Mariya concluded her tribute by reflecting on how much she would miss him. “On November 5th, as I looked at you lying there, I knew you had fought the good fight to the very end.
“Though you are gone, you will be missed by your loved ones and all whose lives you touched. For me and our children, you will always be in our hearts.”
She expressed her sorrow at the absence of their daily rituals, such as him asking about the latest news or calling her “Boss.” “Who will ask me, ‘What’s the latest?’ Who will call me, ‘The Boss?’ Who will give me that morning hug before heading to work?” she wondered.ExxonMobil internship
“Sleep on, Daddy. My Jump Master, my leader, my friend, my husband, our father, my hero, my love, and God’s General. Till we meet again, to part no more, I salute you.”
Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, was laid to rest at the National Military Cemetery in Abuja, on Friday.
The ceremony brought together family, colleagues, and dignitaries to bid a final farewell to the late army chief.
President Bola Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru, and the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, each took turns laying wreaths at the grave.
At the event, Tinubu conferred a posthumous national honour, Commander of the Federal Republic, on Lagbaja.
Tinubu said the conferment was to appreciate Lagbaja’s service to the nation.
The President described Lagbaja as one of his best appointees.
He said, “Lagabaja was a true soldier, a general and officer who symbolised the best of his profession and whose commitment to the nation he loved was singular and undiluted.
“He was more than I could have hoped for. He was one of my best appointments. Lieutenant General Lagbaja embodied the finest ideas of a patriot and a soldier. He had an abiding faith in the capability and readiness of our armed forces to save and keep us”.
Tinubu described Lagbaja as a trusted advisor, adding that he was a man of prudent action who cared about the nation and the men who served under him.
“He displayed uncommon valor in the charge of his duty and the administration of the rank and file for he cared about their welfare and that of their families.
“For me, he was a trusted advisor whose formidable intellect and breadth of knowledge served this nation well,” he added
