In a somber announcement today, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, confirmed the passing of Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, Nigeria’s Chief of Army Staff, at the age of 56. Lt. General Lagbaja, who had been battling an undisclosed illness, passed away on Tuesday night in Lagos.
Born on February 28, 1968, Lt. General Lagbaja had an illustrious career in the Nigerian Army, having served the country with distinction for over three decades. He was appointed Chief of Army Staff by President Tinubu on June 19, 2023, following a career marked by exemplary leadership and numerous key roles in both combat and strategic operations across the nation.
Lagbaja began his military journey in 1987, when he enrolled in the Nigerian Defence Academy. He was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in 1992, joining the Nigerian Infantry Corps as part of the 39th Regular Course. Throughout his service, he earned a reputation for his leadership in several high-profile military operations, including operations in Benue, Borno, Southeast Nigeria, and the North-Central region, where he commanded efforts against insurgency, criminality, and terrorism.
An alumnus of the prestigious U.S. Army War College, Lt. General Lagbaja was also recognized for his commitment to professional development. He held a Master’s degree in Strategic Studies, which bolstered his reputation as a forward-thinking military leader.
In addition to his service to the nation, Lt. General Lagbaja is survived by his wife, Mariya, and their two children.
President Tinubu expressed deep sorrow at the loss, offering his heartfelt condolences to Lt. General Lagbaja’s family, the Nigerian Armed Forces, and the nation as a whole. “Lt. General Lagbaja’s dedication and contributions to the security and peace of Nigeria will forever be etched in our nation’s history,” the President said in a statement. “We mourn his passing, but we also honor the legacy of his service to the country.”
The passing of Lt. General Lagbaja marks a significant moment in the nation’s military history, and tributes have already begun pouring in from across Nigeria and the international community. The nation joins in mourning the loss of a leader who dedicated his life to the defense and security of Nigeria.
Courtesy DAILY COURIER
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