President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, has announced the death of Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, Chief of the Army Staff.
The distinguished military leader passed away on Tuesday night in Lagos at the age of 56 after a period of illness.
The announcement was made in a statement issued by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy. Onanuga shared details of Lt. General Lagbaja’s life, career, and contributions to Nigeria’s military.
“Born on February 28, 1968, Lt. General Lagbaja was appointed Chief of Army Staff on June 19, 2023, by President Tinubu,” the statement read.
Lagbaja’s esteemed military career began in 1987 when he enrolled at the Nigerian Defence Academy.
He was later commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the Nigerian Infantry Corps on September 19, 1992, as part of the 39th Regular Course.
Throughout his service, Lt. General Lagbaja held significant roles, including as a platoon commander in the 93 Battalion and the 72 Special Forces Battalion.
He was instrumental in several critical internal security operations across the country, including Operation ZAKI in Benue State, Operation Lafiya Dole in Borno, Operation Udoka in Southeast Nigeria, and Operation Forest Sanity across Kaduna and Niger States.
A committed advocate for professional development, Lagbaja was an alumnus of the prestigious U.S. Army War College, where he earned a Master’s degree in Strategic Studies, underscoring his dedication to excellence in military leadership.
Lt. General Lagbaja is survived by his wife, Mariya, and their two children.
President Tinubu extended his heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and members of the Nigerian Armed Forces, honoring Lagbaja’s legacy and his lifelong commitment to the nation.
“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 honors his significant contributions to the nation,” the statement concluded.
