Tinubu Mourns Late COAS, Lt Gen Lagbaja
- Army Chief dies in Lagos @ 56
The President and Commander-in-Chief of the Nigerian Armed Forces, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has confirmed the passing of Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, Chief of the Army Staff (COAS), at age 56.
President Tinubu announced Lagbaja’s death in a statement released early on Wednesday morning and signed by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.
According to the statement, President Tinubu expressed his heartfelt condolences to the family and the Nigerian Armed Forces during this difficult time. While wishing the departed Army General eternal peace, the President also appreciated his significant contributions to the nation.
The Presidency statement said Lt. General Lagbaja, who was born on Born on February 28, 1968, passed away on Tuesday night in Lagos after a period of illness.
Late General Lagbaja was appointed COAS on June 19, 2023, by President Tinubu. His distinguished military career began 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.
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.
