By Uzair Adam
The Nigerian Armed Forces have announced the passing of Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, the Chief of Army Staff.
He died at the age of 56 on Tuesday night in Lagos following an illness, as confirmed in a statement from the Presidency signed by Bayo Onanuga.
Lt. General Lagbaja, born on February 28, 1968, began his distinguished career in 1987 at the Nigerian Defence Academy.
He was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the Nigerian Infantry Corps on September 19, 1992, as part of the 39th Regular Course.
Throughout his service, he held various leadership positions, including platoon commander in both the 93 Battalion and the 72 Special Forces Battalion.
He contributed to several key security operations, such as Operation ZAKI in Benue, Lafiya Dole in Borno, Udoka in the Southeast, and Operation Forest Sanity in Kaduna and Niger States.
An alumnus of the U.S. Army War College, Lt. General Lagbaja held a Master’s degree in Strategic Studies, showcasing his dedication to professional development.
He is survived by his wife, Mariya, and their two children.
President Bola Tinubu expressed his condolences to Lt. General Lagbaja’s family and the Nigerian Armed Forces, honoring his contributions to the nation.