President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has announced the death of Nigeria’s Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, who passed away in Lagos on Tuesday after an illness. He was 56.
The announcement is contained in a press release by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.
Lt. General Lagbaja, who was born on February 28, 1968, had a distinguished military career spanning decades, marked by his appointment as Chief of Army Staff on June 19, 2023.
His service to Nigeria began with his enrollment in the Nigerian Defence Academy in 1987 and his commissioning as a Second Lieutenant in the Nigerian Infantry Corps in 1992.
Throughout his career, Lt. General Lagbaja led critical security operations, including Operation ZAKI in Benue State, Lafiya Dole in Borno, Udoka in Southeast Nigeria, and Operation Forest Sanity in Kaduna and Niger States. His leadership was underscored by his commitment to stability in Nigeria’s most challenging regions.
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… pic.twitter.com/3ay7Hxx9Zv
— Bayo Onanuga (@aonanuga1956) November 6, 2024
An alumnus of the U.S. Army War College, Lt. General Lagbaja held a Master’s degree in Strategic Studies, reflecting his dedication to professional development and strategic military leadership.
Lt. General Lagbaja is survived by his wife Mariya, and their two children. President Tinubu extended his condolences to his family and the Nigerian Armed Forces, honoring Lagbaja’s dedication to Nigeria’s security and service.
The nation mourns the loss of Lt. General Lagbaja, whose contributions will be remembered as vital to Nigeria’s ongoing efforts toward peace and security.
PR/Zainab Sa’id
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