JUST IN: Chief of Army Staff Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja Passes Away at Age 56

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, has announced with deep sorrow the passing of the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja. Lt. General Lagbaja passed away on Tuesday night in Lagos after a period of illness. He was 56 years old.

Lt. General Lagbaja, born on February 28, 1968, had a remarkable military career that began with his enrollment in the Nigerian Defence Academy in 1987. He was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant on September 19, 1992, joining the Nigerian Infantry Corps as part of the 39th Regular Course. Known for his dedication and exemplary leadership, he quickly rose through the ranks, eventually being appointed Chief of Army Staff by President Tinubu on June 19, 2023.

Throughout his career, Lt. General Lagbaja was highly regarded for his commitment to national security and his strategic insight. He served in various key operations across the country, including Operation ZAKI in Benue State, Lafiya Dole in Borno, Operation Udoka in Southeast Nigeria, and Operation Forest Sanity across Kaduna and Niger States. His leadership and valor in these assignments left a lasting impact on Nigeria’s internal security efforts.

Lt. General Lagbaja was an alumnus of the U.S. Army War College, where he earned a Master’s degree in Strategic Studies, underscoring his dedication to professional development and excellence in military service.

He is survived by his wife, Mariya, and their two children. President Tinubu extended his heartfelt condolences to Lt. General Lagbaja’s family and the Nigerian Armed Forces, recognizing his invaluable service to the nation.

Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, conveyed the president’s message, honoring Lt. General Lagbaja’s legacy and expressing gratitude for his dedication to Nigeria’s security.