Tribute to Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja

The Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, has passed away, as confirmed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

He was 56 years old at the time of his death.

In an announcement from Bayo Onanuga, the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, it was revealed that Lagbaja succumbed to illness on Tuesday night in Lagos.

“Born on February 28, 1968, Lt. General Lagbaja took up the role of Chief of Army Staff on June 19, 2023, following an appointment by President Tinubu.

“His military journey commenced in 1987 when he joined the Nigerian Defence Academy. He became a Second Lieutenant in the Nigerian Infantry Corps on September 19, 1992, as part of the 39th Regular Course.

“During his career, he showcased remarkable leadership as a platoon commander in both the 93 Battalion and the 72 Special Forces Battalion.

“Lagbaja significantly contributed to various security operations such as Operation ZAKI in Benue State, Lafiya Dole in Borno, Udoka in Southeast Nigeria, and Operation Forest Sanity in Kaduna and Niger States.

“An alumnus of the distinguished U.S. Army War College, he obtained a Master’s degree in Strategic Studies, underlining his commitment to advancing military leadership.

“He leaves behind his cherished wife, Mariya, and their two children.

“President Tinubu extended his deepest sympathies to Lagbaja’s family and the Nigerian Armed Forces during this challenging time, wishing him peace and recognizing his invaluable service to the country,” concluded the statement.