President Bola Ahmed Tinubu confirmed the death of the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja. The distinguished military commander passed away Tuesday night in Lagos following a period of illness, merely eight months into his tenure as the nation’s top army officer.
The news of Lagbaja’s passing was conveyed through a statement issued by Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, marking the end of a remarkable military career that spanned over three decades. His death represents a significant loss to Nigeria’s military leadership and comes at a crucial time when the nation continues to grapple with various security challenges.
Lt. General Lagbaja’s journey in military service began in 1987 when he enrolled at the prestigious Nigerian Defence Academy. His dedication and excellence were evident from the early stages of his career, leading to his commission as a Second Lieutenant in the Nigerian Infantry Corps on September 19, 1992, as part of the 39th Regular Course.
Throughout his illustrious career, Lagbaja distinguished himself as a committed military officer whose leadership qualities were apparent in various critical operations across the country. His service record includes commanding roles in several significant security operations that helped shape Nigeria’s response to internal security challenges. As a platoon commander in both the 93 Battalion and the 72 Special Forces Battalion, he demonstrated tactical prowess and strategic thinking that would later define his leadership style.
The late Army Chief’s operational experience was particularly noteworthy in his involvement in crucial security initiatives across different regions of Nigeria. He played instrumental roles in Operation ZAKI in Benue State, where his strategic input helped address security challenges in the Middle Belt region. His leadership was equally impactful in Operation Lafiya Dole in Borno State, which stood at the forefront of Nigeria’s counter-terrorism efforts in the Northeast.
Further highlighting his versatility, Lagbaja’s command extended to Operation Udoka in Southeast Nigeria and Operation Forest Sanity across Kaduna and Niger States, showcasing his ability to adapt military strategies to diverse security challenges across different geographical and cultural contexts.
His commitment to professional development was exemplified by his academic achievements, including a Master’s degree in Strategic Studies from the U.S. Army War College. This international exposure and advanced military education enhanced his capacity to lead Nigeria’s army in an increasingly complex security environment.
President Tinubu’s appointment of Lagbaja as Chief of Army Staff on June 19, 2023, was widely seen as a recognition of his exceptional service record and leadership capabilities. During his brief tenure as Army Chief, Lagbaja continued to demonstrate the same dedication and strategic insight that had characterized his entire military career.
The timing of his passing is particularly poignant as he was actively involved in steering the Nigerian Army through various security challenges and implementing reforms to enhance the force’s operational effectiveness. His leadership style, characterized by a combination of tactical expertise and strategic vision, had begun to make notable impacts on the army’s operational capabilities.
Lt. General Lagbaja leaves behind his wife, Mariya, and their two children, who must now bear the profound loss of a husband and father who dedicated his life to serving his nation. His passing has created a void in both the military leadership and his family, marking the end of a career that embodied the highest ideals of military service.
President Tinubu, in expressing his condolences, acknowledged Lagbaja’s significant contributions to the nation and offered prayers for eternal peace for the departed soul. The President’s message reflected the national sentiment of loss and gratitude for a military leader who served his country with distinction until his final days.
As Nigeria mourns the loss of this distinguished military officer, Lt. General Lagbaja’s legacy will undoubtedly continue to influence the Nigerian Army’s approach to national security and professional excellence. His dedication to duty and commitment to Nigeria’s security interests have left an indelible mark on the nation’s military history.
