President Bola Tinubu has confirmed the passing of Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, Nigeria’s Chief of Army Staff and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces.
In a statement from Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu announced that Lagbaja passed away in Lagos on Tuesday night after an illness.
He was 56 years old.
Born on February 28, 1968, Lt. General Lagbaja’s military journey began when he joined the Nigerian Defence Academy in 1987.
He was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the Nigerian Infantry Corps on September 19, 1992, as part of the 39th Regular Course.
His career spanned decades of distinguished service, culminating in his appointment as Chief of Army Staff by President Tinubu on June 19, 2023.
Throughout his career, Lagbaja exemplified outstanding leadership and dedication, holding key positions including platoon commander in the 93 Battalion and the 72 Special Forces Battalion.
His contributions were pivotal in multiple security operations, such as Operation ZAKI in Benue State, Lafiya Dole in Borno, Udoka in Southeast Nigeria, and Operation Forest Sanity across Kaduna and Niger States.
A graduate of the U.S. Army War College, Lagbaja earned a Master’s degree in Strategic Studies, underscoring his commitment to continuous professional development and excellence in military leadership.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Mariya, and their two children.
President Tinubu extended his heartfelt condolences to the family and the Nigerian Armed Forces, honoring Lt. General Lagbaja’s remarkable service and legacy.
He wished him eternal peace, recognising the lasting impact of his contributions to Nigeria.
