President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has announced the passing of Nigeria’s Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, who died on Tuesday night in Lagos at age 56 after a brief illness.
Lt. General Lagbaja, born on February 28, 1968, had a distinguished military career spanning over three decades. Appointed Chief of Army Staff by President Tinubu on June 19, 2023, he was respected for his leadership and commitment to national security.
His career began in 1987 when he entered the Nigerian Defence Academy. By 1992, he was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the Nigerian Infantry Corps as a member of the 39th Regular Course.
Throughout his service, Lt. General Lagbaja held several key positions, including roles as platoon commander in both the 93 Battalion and the 72 Special Forces Battalion.
He led numerous operations critical to Nigeria’s internal security, such as Operation ZAKI in Benue State, Lafiya Dole in Borno, Udoka in the Southeast, and Operation Forest Sanity in Kaduna and Niger States, all of which reinforced his reputation as a dedicated military leader.
In addition to his field achievements, Lt. General Lagbaja held a Master’s degree in Strategic Studies from the U.S. Army War College, an accomplishment that underscored his commitment to advancing his strategic and leadership skills.
He leaves behind his wife, Mariya, and their two children.
President Tinubu expressed his condolences to the family, acknowledging Lt. General Lagbaja’s significant contributions to the Armed Forces and Nigeria.
Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, said,
“The President extends his heartfelt condolences to the family and prays for the peaceful repose of Lt. General Lagbaja’s soul, honoring his legacy of service to Nigeria.”