Chief of Army Staff Lt. General Taoreed Lagbaja passes at 56. Honoring his legacy of service, courage, and dedication to Nigeria's security and military advancement.
The Nigerian government has confirmed the passing of Lieutenant General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, Chief of Army Staff. Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Information and Strategy, conveyed the news, reporting that Lagbaja passed away on Tuesday night in Lagos after an illness. He was 56 years old.
“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,” the statement read. It also expressed the President's “heartfelt condolences to the family and the Nigerian Armed Forces during this difficult time” and honoured Lagbaja’s significant contributions to Nigeria’s military Career of Dedication and Service.
About COAS Abiodun Lagbaja
Appointed Chief of Army Staff on June 19, 2023, Lagbaja’s career exemplified commitment and leadership. Born on February 28, 1968, his journey began at the Nigerian Defence Academy in 1987. He was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the Nigerian Infantry Corps five years later and quickly rose through the ranks, leaving a legacy of excellence and resilience in every role he held.
Throughout his military service, Lagbaja was involved in pivotal operations, including Operation ZAKI in Benue State, Operation Lafiya Dole in Borno, Operation Udoka in Southeast Nigeria, and Operation Forest Sanity across Kaduna and Niger States. He served as a platoon commander in the 93 Battalion and the 72 Special Forces Battalion, displaying bravery and strategic skill on the field.
Lagbaja’s commitment to professional growth was evident in his pursuit of advanced studies, including a Master’s degree in Strategic Studies from the U.S. Army War College. This training equipped him with the strategic foresight and resilience needed for his role in the Nigerian Army, where he was widely respected for his dedication to internal security and his efforts to modernize and fortify the military's capabilities.
Olufemi Oluyede, as the acting COAS
Following Lagbaja’s passing, President Tinubu appointed Olufemi Oluyede as the acting Chief of Army Staff, who was recently decorated as Lieutenant General. At the ceremony, President Tinubu praised Oluyede’s commitment to national security, expressing,
“This recognition reflects your commitment and service to the Nigerian military, which speaks volumes through your exemplary record. We recognize all you have done to ensure the country is safe and stable” .
Lagbaja is survived by his wife, Mariya, and their two children, who now mourn the loss of a beloved husband and father. His passing leaves a void in Nigeria’s Armed Forces and a legacy of valour that will be remembered for generations.