President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed his condolences to the Alli family and the Nigerian Army following the passing of the former Chief of Army Staff, Major-General Chris Alli (retired), who passed away on Sunday, November 19, 2023.
In an official statement issued by the President’s Spokesperson, Ajuri Ngelale, President Tinubu characterized the demise of the former Army Chief as a poignant loss, acknowledging his dedicated service to the nation.
“I extend my heartfelt condolences to the Alli family and the Nigerian Army on the somber occasion of the former Chief of Army Staff’s passing. His commitment and meritorious service to the country leave an indelible mark. May the Almighty God grant him eternal rest and provide his family with the strength to cope with this significant loss,” remarked President Tinubu.
Born on December 25, 1944, in Koton Karfe, Kogi State, Major General Alli commenced his journey in the Nigerian Army on October 20, 1967, as a member of the Emergency Short Service Combatant Course.
Major General Alli assumed the role of the ninth Army Chief in November 1993, serving until his retirement from active duty in August 1994. Notably, he also held the position of Military Administrator of Plateau State, Nigeria, from August 1985 to 1986 during the military administration of General Ibrahim Babangida.
During a crisis in Plateau State in 2004, marked by ethno-religious violence in Shendam, Yelwa Local Government, Major General Alli was appointed as the interim administrator. His career also saw him serve as the Director of Military Intelligence (DMI) before ascending to the position of Chief of Army Staff.
The late Major General Chris Alli passed away after battling an illness at the Military Hospital in Lagos State.
Quest: Udomah Ejiroghene.