Nigeria Mourns the Loss of Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja
November 6th, 2024
Abuja, Nigeria (November 6, 2024) – In a somber announcement, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu confirmed the passing of Lieutenant General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, the Chief of Army Staff, on Tuesday night. The 56-year-old military leader succumbed to illness in Lagos.
Appointed to the position by President Tinubu on June 19, 2023, Lt. Gen. Lagbaja was a highly respected figure within the Nigerian Armed Forces. His distinguished career spanned over three decades, marked by exceptional leadership and dedication to service.
A graduate of the Nigerian Defence Academy, Lagbaja held various key positions throughout his military journey, including platoon commander roles in elite units like the 93 Battalion and the 72 Special Forces Battalion. He played a crucial role in numerous internal security operations, such as Operation ZAKI, Lafiya Dole, Udoka, and Forest Sanity.
The late Chief of Army Staff was also a distinguished alumnus of the U.S. Army War College, where he earned a Master’s degree in Strategic Studies.
President Tinubu extended his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and the entire Nigerian Armed Forces. He acknowledged the significant contributions of Lt. Gen. Lagbaja to the nation and wished him eternal peace.
In a swift response to the tragic news, President Tinubu elevated Major General Olufemi Oluyede to the position of acting Chief of Army Staff. Oluyede, who was recently promoted to Lieutenant General, will assume the responsibilities of the departed military leader.
The Nigerian nation mourns the loss of this dedicated soldier and offers its deepest sympathies to his family and colleagues.
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