Finally Nigerian Army admits death of chief of Army staff, General Taoreed Lagbaja’s death at 56 years
After series of denials by the Nigerian army on the fate of chief of army staff General Tahooed Lagbaja it has now been officially announced that he is dead.
This much was disclosed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Lagbaja died at the age of 56.
Few weeks ago army spokesman General Nwachukwu vehemently refuted the rumours making the rounds that Lagbaja was death. He stated that he neither flown abroad for treatment nor dead but was flown abroad to enjoy his annual leave.
But today a statement by the Special Adviser to the President, Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, on Wednesday, said the COAS 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.
“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 honors his significant contributions to the nation,” the statement added.
