Nigeria mourns the loss of its Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, who passed away on Tuesday night in Lagos following an illness. His passing was confirmed in a statement by Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Information and Strategy.
The statement, titled “Announcement of the Passing of Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja,” conveyed President Tinubu’s deep sorrow over the death of Lagbaja at the age of 56. The President extended heartfelt condolences to the family of Lt. General Lagbaja and the Nigerian Armed Forces, paying tribute to his dedication and contributions to the nation. “President Tinubu wishes Lt. General Lagbaja eternal peace and honors his significant contributions to Nigeria,” Onanuga stated.
Appointed by Tinubu on June 19, 2023, Lagbaja served with unwavering commitment and was a seasoned leader in the military. His career highlights included roles as a platoon commander in the 93 Battalion and the 72 Special Forces Battalion. Lagbaja was actively involved in key national security operations such as Operation ZAKI in Benue, Lafiya Dole in Borno, Operation Udoka in the Southeast, and Operation Forest Sanity across Kaduna and Niger States.
Lagbaja, who was a graduate of the U.S. Army War College, leaves behind his wife, Mariya, and their two children. His passing marks a significant loss for the Nigerian military and the country as a whole.
In light of Lagbaja’s illness, President Tinubu had previously appointed Olufemi Oluyede as the acting Chief of Army Staff. Last Wednesday, Oluyede was formally decorated as Lieutenant General, reflecting the government’s recognition of his contributions to national stability. At the ceremony, President Tinubu expressed his respect for Oluyede’s commitment, saying, “It is both an honor and a privilege to decorate you today. Your service to the Nigerian military has been exemplary, ensuring our country’s safety and stability.”
The nation remembers Lt. General Lagbaja’s legacy of courage and leadership as he is laid to rest.
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