The Nigerian Nation and its esteemed Army (NA) came together today to bid a final farewell to the late Major General Mohammed Chris Alli (rtd), a distinguished military officer whose funeral rites were solemnly observed at the National Cemetery, Abuja.
Born on December 25, 1944, in Koton Karfe, Kogi State, General Chris Alli’s illustrious career in the Armed Forces of Nigeria commenced on October 20, 1967, as a member of the Emergency Short Service Combatant Course. Throughout his service, he held various significant positions, including roles in Staff, Instructional, and Command appointments, as well as a stint as the Military Administrator of Plateau State.
In an official statement, Director Army Public Relations Brigadier General Onyema Nwachukwu said the Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, presided over the interment ceremony, eulogizing the late General Alli for his selfless and sacrificial service to the nation and the Armed Forces. Represented by the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, the Honourable Minister acknowledged General Alli’s pivotal role in enhancing the professionalism and global standing of the NA.
General Badaru Abubakar emphasized the enduring legacy of General Alli, marked by impeccable character, patriotism, and dedicated service to Nigeria. He urged all military personnel to uphold the values exemplified by the late General and to actively contribute to national peace, security, development, and unity.
Expressing condolences to the bereaved family, relations, and the entire Armed Forces, the Defence Minister commiserated with all affected by the demise of this distinguished officer.
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, delivered remarks during the ceremony, lauding the remarkable life of General Chris Alli. General Lagbaja paid tribute to the late officer’s passion and devotion to duty, characterizing his career as one marked by distinguished service to humanity. General Alli served as the 15th Chief of Army Staff from November 1993 until his honorable disengagement from active service in August 1994.
General Lagbaja, on behalf of the officers and soldiers of the NA, extended heartfelt condolences to the grieving families of the former COAS, highlighting the profound impact General Chris Alli had on all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Earlier in the day, a Funeral Mass was conducted at the Saint Joseph Military Catholic Church, Mambilla Barracks, Abuja, in memoriam of the deceased senior officer. The ceremony was attended by dignitaries including Former Head of State General Abdusalam Abubakar, National Security Adviser Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, Governor of Kogi State Yahaya Bello, former Chiefs of Defence and Army Staff, traditional leaders, and senior officers, both serving and retired.
