The Office of the President, under Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, announces with deep regret the passing of Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, Chief of Army Staff, at the age of 56.
Lt. General Lagbaja passed away in Lagos on Tuesday night after a period of illness.
Born on February 28, 1968, Lt. General Lagbaja’s service to Nigeria culminated in his appointment as Chief of Army Staff on June 19, 2023, by President Tinubu.
His distinguished career began with his entry into the Nigerian Defence Academy in 1987. He was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the Nigerian Infantry Corps on September 19, 1992, as part of the 39th Regular Course.
Lt. General Lagbaja held numerous roles of responsibility throughout his career, including platoon commander in the 93 Battalion and the 72 Special Forces Battalion, where he displayed exceptional dedication and leadership.
He played instrumental roles in various internal security operations vital to national stability, including Operation ZAKI in Benue State, Operation Lafiya Dole in Borno, Operation Udoka in the Southeast, and Operation Forest Sanity in Kaduna and Niger States.
A graduate of the prestigious U.S. Army War College, Lt. General Lagbaja earned a Master’s degree in Strategic Studies, underscoring his commitment to advancing his skills and knowledge in military leadership.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Mariya, and their two children.
President Tinubu extends heartfelt condolences to the family, loved ones, and the Nigerian Armed Forces. He honors Lt. General Lagbaja’s outstanding contributions to Nigeria and wishes him eternal peace.
