BREAKING NEWS: Chief of Army Staff Taoreed Lagbaja is dead

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, announces with profound sadness the passing of Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, Chief of Army Staff, who died Tuesday night in Lagos at the age of 56 following a period of illness.

Born on February 28, 1968, Lt. General Lagbaja had a distinguished military career that began with his enrollment at the Nigerian Defence Academy in 1987. Commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the Nigerian Infantry Corps in 1992, he was known for his dedication and leadership across critical national security operations, including in Benue, Borno, the Southeast, and North-Central regions.

Appointed Chief of Army Staff by President Tinubu on June 19, 2023, General Lagbaja continued to strengthen the nation’s military capabilities and internal security. A graduate of the U.S. Army War College, he held a Master’s degree in Strategic Studies, underscoring his commitment to excellence and strategic insight in military leadership.

Lt. General Lagbaja is survived by his wife, Mariya, and their two children. President Tinubu extends heartfelt condolences to his family and the Nigerian Armed Forces, honoring his remarkable service to Nigeria.

Bayo Onanuga
Special Adviser to the President
(Information and Strategy)