Chief of Army Staff, Taoreed Lagbaja, Passes Away at 56

The Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, has passed away at the age of 56. The sad news was confirmed on Wednesday by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga. According to the statement, Lagbaja died on Tuesday night in Lagos after battling an illness.

In the official announcement, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu expressed deep sorrow over the loss, stating, “President Tinubu conveys 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.”

Lagbaja, appointed as Chief of Army Staff on June 19, 2023, by President Tinubu, was known for his exceptional leadership throughout his military career. His service began as a platoon commander in the 93 Battalion and the 72 Special Forces Battalion, and he played key roles in multiple security operations across the country. These included Operation ZAKI in Benue, Lafiya Dole in Borno, and Operation Forest Sanity in Kaduna and Niger States.

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An alumnus of the esteemed U.S. Army War College, Lagbaja’s leadership was instrumental in advancing Nigeria’s military objectives, especially in internal security operations. His dedication to his country is remembered by both his colleagues and the citizens he served.

He is survived by his wife, Mariya, and their two children. The loss comes just as President Tinubu had appointed Lt. General Olufemi Oluyede as the acting Chief of Army Staff. This appointment followed weeks of Lagbaja being indisposed. On Tuesday, President Tinubu formally decorated Oluyede, recognizing his dedicated service to the Nigerian military.

Lagbaja’s passing marks a significant moment for Nigeria’s military leadership, and his legacy will continue to influence the country’s security strategies.