President Bola Tinubu has announced the passing of Chief of the Army Staff, Lt. General Taoreed Lagbaja, at age 56.

Tinubu made this known in a statement on Wednesday by Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.

Onanuga stated that Lagbaja 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.

Lagbaja In Service

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.

He served as a platoon commander in the 93 Battalion and the 72 Special Forces Battalion.

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He played pivotal roles in numerous internal security operations.

Some include Operation ZAKI in Benue State, Lafiya Dole in Borno, Udoka in Southeast Nigeria, and Operation Forest Sanity across Kaduna and Niger States.

Condolence To The Family

An alumnus of the prestigious U.S. Army War College, he earned a Master’s degree in Strategic Studies.

Lt. General Lagbaja is survived by his beloved wife, Mariya, and their two children.

President Tinubu expressed 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.