Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, Nigeria’s Chief of Army Staff, has passed away at the age of 56. This sad news was confirmed in a statement by Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Information and Strategy, on Wednesday.
According to Onanuga’s statement, titled “Announcement of the Passing of Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja,” the Army Chief died on Tuesday night in Lagos following a period of illness. President Tinubu expressed his deep sadness over Lagbaja’s passing and extended his heartfelt condolences to the general’s family and the Nigerian Armed Forces.
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, regrets to announce the passing of Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, Chief of the Army Staff, at age 56,” the statement read. “The President expresses his heartfelt condolences to the family and the Nigerian Armed Forces during this difficult time. He wishes Lt. General Lagbaja eternal peace and honours his significant contributions to the nation.”
Appointed by President Tinubu as Chief of Army Staff on June 19, 2023, Lagbaja was known for his exceptional leadership and dedication to Nigeria’s security. Throughout his career, he held various positions in the military, including serving as a platoon commander in both the 93 Battalion and the 72 Special Forces Battalion. His contributions to national security extended across multiple key operations, such as 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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Lagbaja was an alumnus of the prestigious U.S. Army War College, highlighting his international training and experience. He is survived by his wife, Mariya, and their two children.
In response to his illness, President Tinubu had appointed Major General Olufemi Oluyede as the Acting Chief of Army Staff last Wednesday. Just hours before Lagbaja’s passing, Oluyede was promoted to Lieutenant General in a ceremony presided over by the President.
During Oluyede’s decoration, Tinubu praised him for his commitment to Nigeria’s security. “It is both an honour and a privilege to decorate you today,” the President said. “This recognition reflects your commitment and service to the Nigerian military, which speaks volumes through your exemplary record. We recognise all that you have been doing to ensure the country is safe and stable.”
Lagbaja’s death marks the end of a distinguished military career that left a strong impact on Nigeria’s fight against insurgency and internal security challenges. His contributions will be remembered as the nation mourns a dedicated leader and loyal servant to Nigeria’s Armed Forces.