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Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, the Chief of Army Staff, has passed away at the age of 56. He died on Tuesday night, marking the loss of a prominent figure in Nigeria’s military leadership.
Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, confirmed the death of Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, in a statement released on Wednesday. The announcement was made via the X platform, formerly known as Twitter, and has since prompted an outpouring of condolences.
According to him: “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.
After a period of illness, Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja succumbed to his condition on Tuesday night in Lagos. The loss is being deeply felt by the Nigerian military community and the nation at large.
“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.
Read also: Army Committed To Protecting Democracy, Says Lagbaja
“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.
Survived by his wife, Mariya, and their two children, Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja leaves behind a family that shared in his dedication to service and sacrifice. His death has left his loved ones and the nation in mourning.
“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”.
