The Nigerian government on Wednesday confirmed the death of the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja.
President Bola Tinubu mourned the death of the army chief at the age of 56 in a statement issued by his spokesman Bayo Onanuga on Wednesday.
“He died on Tuesday evening in Lagos after a period of illness,” Onanuga said.
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“President Tinubu extends his heartfelt condolences to the family and the Nigerian Armed Forces at this difficult time. He wishes Lt. Gen. Lagbaja eternal peace and honors his significant contributions to the nation.”
Born on February 28, 1968, Lagbaja was appointed Chief of Army Staff by Tinubu on June 19, 2023.
His distinguished military career began when he enrolled at the Nigerian Defense 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. Gen. Lagbaja has demonstrated exceptional leadership and dedication, serving as a platoon commander in the 93rd Battalion and the 72nd Special Forces Battalion,” Onanuga said.
The presidential spokesperson said Lagbaja played a crucial role in numerous internal security operations, including Operation ZAKI in Benue State, Lafiya Dole in Borno, Udoka in South-East Nigeria and Operation Forest Sanity in Kaduna and Niger States.
Lagbaja is an alumnus of the prestigious US Army War College. He earned a master’s degree in strategic studies, demonstrating his commitment to professional growth and excellence in military leadership.
Lt. Gen. Lagbaja is survived by his wife Mariya and their two children.