President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has announced the death of Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, Chief of Army Staff.
He passed away on Tuesday night in Lagos following an illness. He was 56.
This was disclosed in a statement by Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.
Lt. Gen. Lagbaja, appointed Chief of Army Staff on June 19, 2023 by President Tinubu, was a respected leader in the Nigerian Armed Forces.
Born on February 28, 1968, he began his military career at the Nigerian Defence Academy in 1987, completing his training five years later in 1992.
Upon graduation, he was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the Nigerian Infantry Corps as part of the 39th Regular Course.
Over his three-decade career, Lt. Gen. Lagbaja held numerous significant posts. He first served as a platoon commander in the 93 Battalion and the 72 Special Forces Battalion and later commanded various critical security operations across the nation.
Among these were Operation ZAKI in Benue State, Lafiya Dole in Borno, Udoka in Southeast Nigeria, and Operation Forest Sanity, an initiative that targeted criminal groups in Kaduna and Niger States.
A dedicated military scholar, Lt. Gen. Lagbaja graduated from the U.S. Army War College, where he earned a Master’s degree in Strategic Studies.
This achievement highlighted his commitment to advancing his expertise in military strategy and leadership.
Lt. Gen. Lagbaja is survived by his wife, Mariya, and their two children.
President Tinubu extended condolences to the bereaved family and the Nigerian Armed Forces, praising the general’s distinguished service to the nation.
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, regrets to announce the passing of Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, Chief of the Army Staff, at age 56.
“He passed away on Tuesday night in Lagos after a period of illness.
“Born on February 28, 1968, Lt. General Lagbaja was appointed Chief of Army Staff on June 19, 2023, by President Tinubu.
“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.
“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,” statement reads.
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