Tinubu Mourns the Passing of Chief of Army Staff, Taoreed Lagbaja

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, is deeply saddened to announce the passing of Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, Chief of Army Staff, who died on Tuesday night in Lagos at the age of 56 after a period of illness.

Born on February 28, 1968, Lt. General Lagbaja was appointed Chief of Army Staff by President Tinubu on June 19, 2023. His distinguished military career began in 1987 when he enrolled in the Nigerian Defence Academy. He was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the Nigerian Infantry Corps on September 19, 1992, as a member of the 39th Regular Course.

Throughout his career, Lt. General Lagbaja displayed exceptional leadership and commitment, serving in key roles, including as a platoon commander in the 93 Battalion and the 72 Special Forces Battalion. He made significant contributions to several internal security operations, including Operation ZAKI in Benue State, Operation Lafiya Dole in Borno, Operation Udoka in Southeast Nigeria, and Operation Forest Sanity in Kaduna and Niger States.

An alumnus of the esteemed U.S. Army War College, Lt. General Lagbaja earned a Master’s degree in Strategic Studies, reflecting his unwavering commitment to professional development and excellence in military leadership.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Mariya, and their two children.

President Tinubu extends his deepest condolences to the Lagbaja family and the Nigerian Armed Forces during this difficult time. He honors Lt. General Lagbaja’s invaluable contributions to the nation and prays for his soul to rest in peace.