President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has announced the passing of Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, Chief of Army Staff, at the age of 56.
The President confirmed the news in a statement released late Tuesday evening, expressing deep regret and offering condolences to the bereaved family and the Nigerian Armed Forces.
Lt. General Lagbaja, a decorated military officer with a distinguished career spanning over three decades, passed away in Lagos after a period of illness.
He was appointed to the prestigious position just two months ago on June 19, 2023, by President Tinubu.
Born on February 28, 1968, Lagbaja joined the Nigerian Defence Academy in 1987 and was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the Nigerian Infantry Corps in 1992.
His service saw him rise through the ranks, commanding platoons in the 93 Battalion and the 72 Special Forces Battalion.
Lagbaja played key 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.
His dedication to professional development led him to the U.S. Army War College, where he earned a Master’s degree in Strategic Studies.
The nation mourns the loss of a dedicated leader and a distinguished soldier.
President Tinubu praised Lt. General Lagbaja’s significant contributions to the nation and wished him eternal peace.
He is survived by his wife, Mariya, and two children.
The circumstances surrounding the Chief of Army Staff’s death remain unclear at this time
