Enimere Àkànbí
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has announced the passing of the Chief of the Army Staff, Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja’s, age 56.
This is contained in a statement by the presidential spokesman, Bayo Onanuga on Wednesday morning.
The statement reads:
“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 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.
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“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.
Meanwhile, Oyo State governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, has described the death of the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, as a sad loss to the country.
Governor Makinde, who, in statement signed by his Special Adviser (Media), Dr Sulaimon Olanrewaju, described Lt. General Lagbaja as a patriot and one of the finest military officers produced by the country, expressed his condolences to the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Nigerian Army.
He equally commiserated with the immediate family of the deceased COAS as well as the Government and people of Osun State on the demise of their illustrious son, praying to Allah to grant repose to his soul.
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