Army boss, Lagbaja is dead, Tinubu mourns

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja has passed on in Lagos on Tuesday after a prolonged illness.

His death was made known by the Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser (Information and Strategy) to President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday.

The Army boss had been unavailable for a while, with the military authorities denying that he was indisposed. After a while Tinubu had ignored military protocol and had appointed an acting COAS.

Making the announcement via a statement on Wednesday, Onanuga said:
“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.

“He passed away on Tuesday night in Lagos after a period of illness.

“Born on February 28, 1968, Lt. General Lagbaja was appointed Chief of Army Staff on June 19, 2023, by President Tinubu.

READ ALSO: Army chief, Lagbaja laments drug abuse among soldiers fighting terrorism

“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.

“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.

“Lt. General Lagbaja is survived by his beloved wife, Mariya, and their two children.

“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”.

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