President Bola Tinubu, on Wednesday, announced the death of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, aged 56.
The announcement was coming after several weeks of speculations on the state of health of the deceased COAS, and days after the president appointed Major General (now Lt. General) Olufemi Oluyede as the new COAS, in acting capacity.
President Tinubu, as contained in a State House Press Release by his Special Adviser (Media & Strategy), Bayo Onanuga, said Lt. General Lagbaja died in Lagos on Tuesday.
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, regrets to announce the passing of Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, Chief of the Army Staff, at age 56.
“He 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.
“His distinguished military career began when he enrolled in the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) in 1987.
“On September 19, 1992, Lt. General Lagbaja 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 South-East 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.
“He wishes Lt. General Lagbaja eternal peace and honours his significant contributions to the nation,” it was stated in the release.
Elevation and decoration of Lt. General Oluyede
Just on Tuesday, President Tinubu had decorated the acting Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Olufemi Oluyede, with the rank of Lieutenant General.
The president decorated Oluyede in his office at the State House in Abuja in the presence of the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa and the other service chiefs.
The president, during the decoration, praised the military for its unwavering courage, dedication and patriotism in maintaining national security.
