President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has announced the passing of Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, the Chief of Army Staff, who died at the age of 56.
According to Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Lagbaja passed away on Tuesday night in Lagos after a period of illness.
Lagbaja, born on February 28, 1968, was appointed Chief of Army Staff on June 19, 2023 as his military career began at the Nigerian Defence Academy in 1987, leading to his commission as a Second Lieutenant in the Nigerian Infantry Corps in 1992.Known for his dedication and leadership, he served in various capacities, including roles in the 93 Battalion and 72 Special Forces Battalion.
His contributions to major internal security operations such as Operation ZAKI in Benue State, Lafiya Dole in Borno, Udoka in the Southeast, and Operation Forest Sanity in Kaduna and Niger States while an alumnus of the U.S. Army War College with a Master’s degree in Strategic Studies, Lagbaja was committed to excellence in military leadership.
President Tinubu extended heartfelt condolences to his family and the Nigerian Armed Forces, honoring Lagbaja’s service and dedication to the nation.