Presidency Confirms Death of Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Taoreed Lagbaja

He died on Tuesday night in Lagos following a period of illness.

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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu  Onanuga expressed his heartfelt condolences to General Lagbaja’s family and to the Nigerian Armed Forces. In a statement signed by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President described Lt. General Lagbaja’s death as a significant loss to the nation.

“He wishes Lt. General Lagbaja eternal peace and honors his significant contributions to the nation,” the statement read.

Lt. General Lagbaja, who was 56 years old, was appointed Chief of Army Staff on June 19, 2023. His career in the Nigerian Army was marked by dedication, bravery, and a strong commitment to national security.

Born on February 28, 1968, he joined the Nigerian Defence Academy in 1987 and was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the Nigerian Infantry Corps in 1992. Over the years, he rose through the ranks, serving in key leadership positions, including platoon commander in the 93 Battalion and the 72 Special Forces Battalion.

Throughout his service, Lt. General Lagbaja played a central role in several critical internal security operations across Nigeria. These included Operation ZAKI in Benue State, Lafiya Dole in Borno, Udoka in the Southeast, and Operation Forest Sanity across Kaduna and Niger States, among others.

An alumnus of the U.S. Army War College, Lt. General Lagbaja held a Master’s degree in Strategic Studies, reflecting his commitment to military excellence and leadership.

He is survived by his wife, Mariya, and their two children. President Tinubu extended his deepest sympathies to the Lagbaja family and offered them the nation’s support during this difficult time.

The President also praised Lt. General Lagbaja’s contributions to the Nigerian Army, noting that his legacy would continue to inspire generations of military personnel.