President Bola Tinubu has announced the passing of Nigeria’s Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, who died at age 56 after a brief illness.
The President conveyed the news through his spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, in a statement released on Wednesday.
General Lagbaja passed away on Tuesday night in Lagos, though the nature of his illness was not disclosed.
In his statement, President Tinubu offered his condolences to the family of the late General and the Nigerian Armed Forces, honouring Lagbaja’s impactful career and service.
The President expressed his admiration for Lt. General Lagbaja's dedication to the nation and wished him eternal peace, noting his invaluable contributions to Nigeria’s security and military leadership.
Lt. General Lagbaja was born on February 28, 1968, and served as Chief of Army Staff for one year and four months after President Tinubu appointed him to the position in June 2023.
His military journey began in 1987 when he entered the Nigerian Defence Academy, embarking on a career that would span nearly four decades.
He was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the Nigerian Infantry Corps in 1992 as part of the academy’s 39th Regular Course.
Over the years, he ascended through the ranks, building a reputation for his strategic insight and dedication.
Throughout his career, Lt. General Lagbaja held several key roles within the military, including platoon commander for the 93 Battalion and the 72 Special Forces Battalion.
His experience extended to major internal security operations across the country, where he led efforts in challenging regions.
He played pivotal roles in several critical missions, such as Operation ZAKI in Benue State, Operation Lafiya Dole in Borno, Operation Udoka in Southeast Nigeria, and Operation Forest Sanity across Kaduna and Niger States, among others.
An alumnus of the U.S. Army War College, Lt. General Lagbaja earned a Master’s degree in Strategic Studies, underscoring his commitment to professional development and excellence.
His advanced education helped shape his approach to leadership within the Nigerian Army, contributing to the tactical and strategic improvements he implemented during his tenure.
Lt. General Lagbaja is survived by his wife, Mariya, and their two children.
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