In a State House Press release, Nigeria President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, announced the passing of Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, Chief of the Army Staff (COAS), at the age of 56.
The COAS was said to have passed away on Tuesday night in Lagos after a period of illness.
He was born on February 28th, 1968, and was appointed Chief of Army Staff on June 19th, 2023, by President Tinubu.
The late COAS’s distinguished military career began when he enrolled in the Nigerian Defence Academy in the year 1987. On September 19th, 1992, he was joyfully commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the Nigerian Infantry Corps as a distinguished member of the 39th Regular Course.
Late Lt. General Lagbaja has demonstrated exceptional leadership and commitment, serving as a platoon commander in the 93 Battalion and the 72 Special Forces Battalion throughout his military career.
He had played pivotal roles in numerous internal security operations in the country, 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.
The late Lt. General is survived by his beloved wife, Mariya, and their two lovely children.
President Bola Tinubu expresses his heartfelt condolences to the immediate family and the staff of the Nigerian Armed Forces during this difficult time. He therefore, wishes Lt. General Lagbaja eternal peace and honours his significant contributions to Nigeria.