Nigeria’s Chief of Army Staff, Taoreed Lagbaja Is Dead

The Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has confirmed the passing of Lt. General Taoreed Lagbaja, who served as Chief of the Army Staff.

Lt. General Lagbaja was 56 years old at the time of his death.

A statement from Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, revealed that Lagbaja died on Tuesday night in Lagos following a period of illness.

Born on February 28, 1968, Lt. General Lagbaja was appointed to his position as Chief of Army Staff on June 19, 2023, by President Tinubu.

His illustrious military career commenced with his enrollment in 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.

During his tenure, Lt. General Lagbaja exhibited remarkable leadership and dedication, serving as a platoon commander in both the 93 Battalion and the 72 Special Forces Battalion.

He was instrumental in various internal security operations, including Operation ZAKI in Benue State, Lafiya Dole in Borno, Udoka in Southeast Nigeria, and Operation Forest Sanity in Kaduna and Niger States.

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An alumnus of the esteemed U.S. Army War College, he obtained a Master’s degree in Strategic Studies, underscoring his commitment to professional development 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 honors his significant contributions to the nation,” the statement added.