Abuja, Nigeria-Nigeria’s Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, has passed away at the age of 56.
He reportedly died on Tuesday night in Lagos following a period of illness.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, expressed deep sorrow over the loss of the respected military leader.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, conveyed the President’s heartfelt condolences.
Born on February 28, 1968, Lt. General Lagbaja was appointed Chief of Army Staff on June 19, 2023, by President Tinubu.
His tenure was marked by his dedication to improving the operational readiness of the Nigerian Army. His passing leaves a significant void in the country’s military leadership, with many recalling his commitment to national security and defence reform.
The statement read, “His distinguished military career began when he enrolled in the Nigerian Defence Academy in 1987. On September 19, 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 demonstrated exceptional leadership and commitment, serving as a platoon commander in the 93 Battalion and the 72 Special Forces Battalion.
“He played pivotal roles in numerous internal security operations, including Operation ZAKI in Benue State, Lafiya Dole in Borno, Udoka in Southeast Nigeria, and Operation Forest Sanity across Kaduna and Niger States.
It said, “An alumnus of the prestigious U.S. Army War College, he earned a Master’s degree in Strategic Studies, demonstrating his dedication to professional growth and excellence in military leadership.
Lt. General Lagbaja is survived by his beloved wife, Mariya, and their two children.
“President Tinubu expresses his heartfelt condolences to the family and the Nigerian Armed Forces during this difficult time. He wishes Lt. General Lagbaja eternal peace and honours his significant contributions to the nation,” Onanuga added.
