Nigeria’s Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Taoreed Lagbaja, has passed away.
Lagbaja succumbed to an undisclosed illness while receiving treatment overseas. He was 56 years old at the time of his death.
He was appointed to the position of COAS by President Bola Tinubu on June 19, 2023.
On October 20, the army refuted rumours regarding Lagbaja’s death, stating that the army chief was undergoing medical care abroad.
Subsequently, on October 30, President Tinubu appointed Olufemi Oluyede as the acting COAS.
On November 5, the president promoted Oluyede to the rank of lieutenant general.
Lagbaja’s death was, however, confirmed in a statement issued on Wednesday by Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy.
Born on February 28, 1968, Lt. General Lagbaja was appointed Chief of Army Staff on June 19, 2023, by President Tinubu.
The statement said Lagbaja’s distinguished military career began when he enrolled in the Nigerian Defence Academy in 1987.
It added: “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.”
