The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja is dead. His death was announced today, November 6, by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
In a statement by his spokesperson,Bayo Onanuga, President Tinuhu announced the passing of Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, Chief of the Army Staff, at age 56.
He died yesterday night, November 5, in Lagos after a period of illness. It was the same day the Acting Chief Of Army Staff was promoted to the same rank with him.
The statement said that late Lagbaja was born on February 28, 1968, and was appointed Chief of Army Staff on June 19, 2023.
The statement narrated that Lagbaja’s 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 wife, Mariya, and their two children.
President Tinubu expressed his heartfelt condolences to the family and the Nigerian Armed Forces during this difficult time.
He wished Lt. General Lagbaja eternal peace and honoured his significant contributions to the nation.
