Lagbaja is Dead

Nigeria’s Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. General Taoreed Lagbaja, has passed away.

In a statement on 6th November, Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Information and Strategy, announced the sad news.

Lagbaja was appointed COAS by President Tinubu on 19th June, 2023, and played a significant role in the fight against insurgency until his demise.

According to Onanuga, Lagbaja “passed away on Tuesday night in Lagos after a period of illness.”

Born on 28th February, 1968, the late general had a distinguished military career.

The statement noted that he began his career when he enrolled in the Nigerian Defence Academy in 1987.

“On September 19, 1992, he was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the Nigerian Infantry Corps as a member of the 39th Regular Course,” the statement read.

It continued, “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.

“The President wishes Lt. General Lagbaja eternal peace and honors his significant contributions to the nation.”