Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, the Chief of Army Staff, passed away at the age of 56 after a prolonged battle with an unknown illness.
The news of his passing was confirmed in a statement on November 6 by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Information and Strategy, who disclosed that the late army chief died on Tuesday night in Lagos.
Lagbaja, born on February 28, 1968, was appointed as Chief of Army Staff on June 19, 2023, by President Tinubu. His tenure, though brief, saw him prioritize the modernization and operational enhancement of the Nigerian Army.
The general’s health challenges came to public attention in October when the Nigerian Army dismissed circulating rumors of his death, clarifying that he was undergoing medical treatment abroad.
Shortly after, on October 30, President Tinubu appointed Olufemi Oluyede as Acting COAS. By November 5, Oluyede was officially decorated with the rank of lieutenant-general.
Lagbaja’s career began in 1987 when he joined the Nigerian Defence Academy.
He was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the Nigerian Infantry Corps on September 19, 1992, as a member of the 39th Regular Course.
His military service spanned over three decades, during which he took on critical roles in various national security operations, including Operation ZAKI in Benue State, Lafiya Dole in Borno, Udoka in the Southeast, and Operation Forest Sanity in Kaduna and Niger States.
His contributions to these operations underscored his commitment to Nigeria’s security and stability.
The late general was an alumnus of the prestigious U.S. Army War College, where he earned a Master’s degree in Strategic Studies, underscoring his commitment to professional growth and military excellence.
President Tinubu expressed profound condolences to Lagbaja’s family and the Nigerian Armed Forces, honoring his service and dedication.
“Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja served Nigeria with valor and distinction. His legacy will forever be a part of our Armed Forces and our history,” the president’s statement read.
Lt. General Lagbaja is survived by his wife, Mariya, and their two children.
He leaves behind a legacy of loyalty, leadership, and patriotism that will be remembered within the ranks of the Nigerian military and by the nation he served.