President Bola Tinubu has officially confirmed the death of the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, at the age of 56.
According to a statement released by the President’s spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, the military leader passed away in Lagos on the night of Tuesday, November 5, 2024, after battling an undisclosed illness.
President Tinubu expressed deep sorrow and offered his condolences to the bereaved family and the Nigerian Armed Forces, extending his wishes for eternal peace for the late general. He praised Lt. General Lagbaja for his dedicated service to the nation and for his significant contributions to Nigeria’s defense.
Born on February 28, 1968, Lt. General Lagbaja had been appointed as the Chief of Army Staff by President Tinubu in June 2023. He served in the capacity for one year and four months before his passing. Lagbaja’s military journey began in 1987 when he enrolled at the Nigerian Defence Academy.
He was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the Nigerian Infantry Corps in 1992, where he quickly rose through the ranks, demonstrating leadership in various key military operations.
Throughout his career, Lt. General Lagbaja held several prominent positions, including platoon commander in the 93 Battalion and the 72 Special Forces Battalion.
He played pivotal roles in internal security operations across Nigeria, notably in Operation ZAKI in Benue State, Operation Lafiya Dole in Borno State, and Operation Forest Sanity in Kaduna and Niger States. He was also instrumental in overseeing Operation Udoka in Southeast Nigeria.
An alumnus of the prestigious U.S. Army War College, Lt. General Lagbaja earned a Master’s degree in Strategic Studies, showcasing his commitment to advancing his military knowledge and leadership capabilities.
He is survived by his wife, Mariya, and their two children.
Earlier in late October 2024, there were widespread rumors about the health of the Chief of Army Staff, with claims circulating that he had died in a hospital abroad.
The Defence Headquarters quickly dispelled these rumors, clarifying that Lt. General Lagbaja was on annual leave, and his absence was not due to death.
In an official statement, Army spokesperson Onyema Nwachukwu confirmed that Lt. General Lagbaja’s temporary absence did not affect the operations of the military.
Major General Abdulsalami Ibrahim, the Chief of Policy and Plans, had been appointed to act on behalf of the Chief of Army Staff during this period.
In light of Lagbaja’s prolonged absence due to illness, President Tinubu appointed Major General Olufemi Olatubosun Oluyede as the Acting Chief of Army Staff on October 30, 2024.
This appointment was meant to ensure the continuity of leadership in the army until Lt. General Lagbaja’s return.
Oluyede, a 56-year-old officer who had previously served as the Commander of the Infantry Corps of the Nigerian Army, was officially decorated as a Lieutenant General by President Tinubu on November 1, 2024.
Oluyede is expected to serve as the acting Chief of Army Staff until further developments. If confirmed by the Senate, Oluyede will permanently replace Lagbaja.
General Oluyede, who was a coursemate of Lagbaja in the 39th Regular Course at the Nigerian Defence Academy, has had a distinguished career.
He has participated in numerous military operations both within Nigeria and internationally.
His roles included commanding during the ECOMOG Mission in Liberia, Operation HARMONY IV in Bakassi, and overseeing the successful Operation HADIN KAI in the Northeast.
As Oluyede now takes on his new role, he brings with him a wealth of experience, having been decorated with numerous honors throughout his military career, including the Corps Medal of Honour, Grand Service Star, and a membership in the National Institute.
President Tinubu has extended his heartfelt condolences to the Nigerian Armed Forces and to the family of Lt. General Lagbaja, describing the late army chief as a devoted and tireless leader.
Tributes have poured in from various quarters, with many praising Lagbaja’s professionalism, dedication, and his significant contributions to Nigeria’s security.
The country continues to mourn the loss of a highly respected and decorated military officer, while the armed forces stand united in honoring his memory and contributions.
