The Presidency has announced the death of Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, Chief of Army Staff, who passed away at the age of 56.
The tragic news was made public on Wednesday morning in a statement by Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.
According to Onanuga, Lt. General Lagbaja died on Tuesday night in Lagos following a period of illness.
Born on February 28, 1968, Lt. General Lagbaja was appointed Chief of Army Staff by President Tinubu on June 19, 2023. His illustrious military career began in 1987 when he enrolled in the Nigerian Defence Academy. After completing his training, he was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the Nigerian Infantry Corps on September 19, 1992, as part of the 39th Regular Course.
Throughout his career, Lt. General Lagbaja held various significant leadership roles, including platoon commander in the 93 Battalion and the 72 Special Forces Battalion. He played an instrumental part in several critical internal security operations, 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.
An alumnus of the prestigious U.S. Army War College, Lt. General Lagbaja earned a Master’s degree in Strategic Studies, reflecting his commitment to professional development and excellence in military leadership.
He is survived by his wife, Mariya, and their two children.
President Tinubu extended his deepest condolences to the Lagbaja family and the Nigerian Armed Forces, emphasizing the invaluable contributions the late General made to the nation. He prayed for Lt. General Lagbaja’s eternal peace and offered his heartfelt tribute to a life dedicated to the service of Nigeria.
