••• President Tinubu Reacts
In a shocking announcement, the State House has confirmed the passing of Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, Chief of Army Staff, at the age of 56. According to reports, Lt. General Lagbaja passed away on Tuesday night in Lagos after a period of illness.
Born on February 28, 1968, Lt. General Lagbaja enlisted in the Nigerian Defence Academy in 1987 and was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the Nigerian Infantry Corps on September 19, 1992. He demonstrated exceptional leadership and commitment throughout his service, 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.
Lt. General Lagbaja was an alumnus of the prestigious U.S. Army War College, where he earned a Master’s degree in Strategic Studies. This achievement showcased his dedication to professional growth and excellence in military leadership.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed his heartfelt condolences to the family and the Nigerian Armed Forces during this difficult time.
He wishes Lt. General Lagbaja eternal peace and honors his significant contributions to the nation.
The press release Read;
STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE
Announcement of the Passing of Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, regrets to announce the passing of Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, Chief of the Army Staff, at age 56.
He passed away on Tuesday night in Lagos after a period of 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.
Bayo Onanuga
Special Adviser to the President
(Information and Strategy)
