President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has announced the passing of Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, Chief of the Army Staff.
According to a statement released on Wednesday morning by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Lt. General Lagbaja, 56, was appointed Chief of Army Staff on June 19, 2023. He stated that Lagbaja passed away on Tuesday night after a period of illness. He is survived by his wife, Mariya, and two children.
He was born on February 28, 1968. Lagbaja enrolled in the Nigerian Defence Academy in 1987 and was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the Nigerian Infantry Corps in 1992. He demonstrated exceptional leadership and commitment throughout his service.
Lagbaja’s military career began when he enrolled in the Nigerian Defence Academy in 1987. On September 19, 1992, he was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the Nigerian Infantry Corps as a member of the 39th Regular Course.
Throughout his service, Lt. General Lagbaja demonstrated exceptional leadership and commitment, serving as a platoon commander in the 93 Battalion and the 72 Special Forces Battalion.
He played pivotal roles in numerous internal security operations, including Operation ZAKI in Benue State, Lafiya Dole in Borno, Udoka in Southeast Nigeria, and Operation Forest Sanity across Kaduna and Niger States.Lagbaja demonstrated exceptional leadership and commitment during his military career.
He also earned a Master’s degree in Strategic Studies from the prestigious U.S. Army War College, showcasing his dedication to professional growth and excellence in military leadership.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has extended his deepest condolences to the family of the late Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja and the Nigerian Armed Forces. He wishes the departed army chief eternal peace and honors his remarkable contributions to the nation.
