President Bola Tinubu has announced the demise of substantive Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja at 56.
The announcement is contained in a Wednesday statement signed by Special Adviser to the President on
Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.
The presidential statement said Lagbaja passed away on Tuesday night in Lagos after a brief 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 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.
“An alumnus of the prestigious U.S. Army War College, he earned a Master’s degree in Strategic Studies, demonstrating his dedication to professional growth and excellence in military leadership.
“Lt. General Lagbaja is survived by his beloved wife, Mariya, and their two children.
“President Tinubu expresses his heartfelt condolences to the family and the Nigerian Armed Forces during this difficult time. He wishes Lt. General Lagbaja eternal peace and honours his significant contributions to the nation,” the statement reads in part.
This ends weeks of speculation about the Army chief’s state of health.
On October 20, the Nigerian Army dismissed speculation about the COAS’ death.
Barely a day after, the Defence Headquarters denied it had appointed an Acting Chief of Army Staff.
On October 30, Tinubu appointed Maj.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede as acting Chief of Army Staff and promoted him to the rank of Lieutenant General on Tuesday.
