The late Maj.-Gen. Chris Alli, former Chief of Army Staff, found his final resting place at the National Military Cemetery in Abuja.
Passing away at 79 in Lagos on Nov. 19, 2023, Alli held the position of Nigeria’s 15th Chief of Army Staff from 1993 to 1994 under Gen. Sani Abacha.
His military service extended to being the governor of Plateau from 1985 to 1986 during President Ibrahim Babangida’s regime and later serving as the Interim Administrator of Plateau in 2004 during President Olusegun Obasanjo’s civilian administration.
The funeral, graced by dignitaries including the National Security Adviser, Malam Nuhu Ribadu, representing President Bola Tinubu, witnessed the presence of former Head of State, Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar, Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi, and a representative of the Plateau Governor.
Serving and former service chiefs, along with prominent Nigerians and family members, also paid their respects.
The solemn event included the presentation of the National Flag to the late COAS’s next-of-kin and the laying of wreaths by dignitaries and Mrs Dorothy Alli, the deceased’s wife. Prior to the burial, a funeral mass was held at St. Joseph Military Catholic Church, Mambilla Barracks, Asokoro, Abuja.
Reflecting on Maj.-Gen. Alli’s life, Minister of Defence, Alhaji Muhammed Badaru, conveyed that the departed served Nigeria with dedication, contributing to peace, development, and unity.
Represented by Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, Badaru highlighted Alli’s influence in professionalising and repositioning the army on both regional and global stages, emphasising the late General’s exemplary life.
