Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, Nigeria’s Chief of Army Staff, passed away at 56 following a prolonged illness, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu announced on Wednesday.
Lagbaja’s death represents a significant loss for Nigeria’s military, where he was a respected figure known for his leadership and dedication to national security. The President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, confirmed that he died Tuesday night in Lagos.
In a swift response to Lagbaja’s confirmed illness, Olufemi Oluyede, a fellow classmate from the Nigerian Defence Academy, was appointed to assume his duties last Wednesday. President Tinubu’s administration made the interim decision to appoint Oluyede as acting Chief of Army Staff in anticipation of Lagbaja’s recovery, though his condition worsened.
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Oluyede’s promotion, intended as a temporary measure, has now been formalized following Lagbaja’s untimely death.
“Lt. General Lagbaja’s commitment to his nation and his exceptional service are a testament to his lifelong dedication to Nigeria’s armed forces,” President Tinubu stated. Born on February 28, 1968, in Ilobu, Osun State, Lagbaja began his career at the Nigerian Defence Academy in 1987, graduating five years later. His decades-long career saw him ascend through the ranks, leading numerous pivotal military operations aimed at securing Nigeria against insurgent and criminal threats.
Lagbaja’s contributions spanned the country, from commanding missions such as Operation ZAKI in Benue to combating insurgency through Operation Lafiya Dole in Borno State. Notably, his role in Operation Forest Sanity focused on dismantling criminal groups in Kaduna and Niger States, where he was instrumental in restoring peace to affected areas. A dedicated military strategist, Lagbaja held a Master’s degree in Strategic Studies from the U.S. Army War College, which underscored his commitment to continuous learning and excellence in military leadership.
His family, including his wife Mariya and their two children, are left to mourn a beloved husband and father. President Tinubu extended deep condolences to Lagbaja’s family and fellow officers, remarking, “Lt. General Lagbaja’s legacy will endure in the strength he instilled in our armed forces. His memory will inspire the courage and resilience we need as a nation.”
Oluyede’s appointment signals continuity within the army’s upper ranks and brings a seasoned leader to the role during this difficult transition. A close friend and classmate of Lagbaja, Oluyede is expected to carry forward the mission of reinforcing national security while honoring his predecessor’s legacy.
