By Enyichukwu Enemanna
Nigeria’s Chief of Army Staff, Taoreed Lagbaja has passed away at the age of 56.
His death was confirmed in a statement by the Special Adviser to the President, Bayo Onanuga, on Wednesday.
“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.
In the statement titled ‘Announcement of the Passing of Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja,’ Onanuga said Lagbaja died on Tuesday night in Lagos after a period of illness.
“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.
“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,” the statement read.
Lagbaja was appointed Chief of Army Staff on June 19, 2023, by Tinubu.
Lagbaja demonstrated exceptional leadership and commitment throughout his service, serving as a platoon commander in the 93 Battalion and the 72 Special Forces Battalion, the presidency says.
The presidency extolled him for playing a 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.
Lagbaja, an alumnus of the prestigious U.S. Army War College, is reported to be survived by his wife, Mariya, and their two children.
Earlier, Tinubu had appointed Olufemi Oluyede as the acting Chief of Army Staff after Lagbaja was confirmed indisposed for weeks.
On Tuesday, he decorated Oluyede as Lieutenant General, apparently in readiness for confirmation as substantive Chief of Army Staff.
“It is both an honour and a privilege to decorate you today.
“This recognition reflects your commitment and service to the Nigerian military, which speaks volumes through your exemplary record.
“We recognise all that you have been doing to ensure the country is safe and stable,” the President said.
