GU Bukar, the aide-de-camp (ADC) to the late Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, has penned an emotional tribute to the former chief of army staff, describing him as a leader who shaped his ethos and leadership spirit.
Lagbaja, appointed army chief by President Bola Tinubu in June 2023, passed away recently after battling an undisclosed ailment. In recognition of his service, the president posthumously awarded him the national honour of Commander of the Federal Republic (CFR).
In a post shared on X (formerly Twitter), Bukar expressed his deep admiration for Lagbaja, noting that he had hoped to one day write his biography, not his obituary.
“I first met you 10 years ago, on the 1st of December 2014, as my Commanding Officer in 72 Special Forces Battalion,” Bukar wrote. “It was then that you started instilling in me the warrior ethos and leadership spirit which eventually prepared me for my sojourn in the NE [North East] operation.”
Bukar highlighted the invaluable life lessons he gained from Lagbaja, emphasizing the former army chief’s attention to detail, courtesy, and generosity.
“From you, I learned a lot, I must say. From seemingly trivial things which many might ignore, like making your bed before checking out of a hotel room, ensuring you tip the housekeeper before leaving, and many more,” he recounted.
“You always thanked your driver whenever he took you home safely from a journey. Your generosity, also, was next to none.”
Bukar further praised Lagbaja’s sense of responsibility and care for his subordinates, citing his dedication to their personal and professional growth.
“You taught me that as a leader, one needed to think and plan for subordinates. For instance, you knew when I was due for courses, and you ensured I went for them when the time came,” he added. “You never denied or reduced anyone’s application for pass or leave… and you would say, ‘Go for your pass; the work will be done.’”
Meanwhile, President Tinubu has appointed Maj. Gen. Olufemi Olatubosun Oluyede as the acting chief of army staff, pending Senate approval.
