Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, Dies at 56

The Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, has passed away at the age of 56.

A statement from Presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga confirmed that Lt. General Lagbaja died on Tuesday night, November 5, in Lagos after a period of illness.

Born on February 28, 1968, Lt. General Lagbaja was appointed Chief of Army Staff on June 19, 2023, by President Tinubu.

His distinguished military career began in 1987 when he enrolled at the Nigerian Defence Academy. On September 19, 1992, he was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the Nigerian Infantry Corps as part of the 39th Regular Course.

Throughout his service, Lt. General Lagbaja demonstrated exceptional leadership and commitment.

He served as a platoon commander in both the 93 Battalion and the 72 Special Forces Battalion, and played key 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.

An alumnus of the U.S. Army War College, he earned a Master’s degree in Strategic Studies, reflecting his dedication to professional growth and military excellence.

Lt. General Lagbaja is survived by his wife, Mariya, and their two children.

President Tinubu, in his statement, extended heartfelt condolences to the family and the Nigerian Armed Forces during this difficult time. He prayed for Lt. General Lagbaja’s eternal peace and honored his significant contributions to the nation.