Taoreed Lagbaja, who served as the chief army staff (COAS), has died. Lagbaja passed away following a fight with an unspecified illness. He was 56 years old.
On June 19, 2023, he was made COAS by President Bola Tinubu.
Army officials refuted claims of Lagbaja’s passing on October 20, clarifying that the army chief was currently undergoing medical treatment in another country.
The acting COAS position was given to Olufemi Oluyede by Tinubu on October 30.
The president promoted Oluyede to the rank of lieutenant-general on November 5.
In a statement on November 6, Bayo Onanuga, special adviser on information and strategy to the president, said Lagbaja “passed away on Tuesday night in Lagos after a period of illness”.
“Born on February 28, 1968, Lt. General Lagbaja was appointed Chief of Army Staff on June 19, 2023, by President Tinubu,” the statement reads.
“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. President Tinubu expresses his heartfelt condolences to the family and the Nigerian Armed Forces during this difficult time.
“The president wishes Lt. General Lagbaja eternal peace and honours his significant contributions to the nation.”