Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, Nigeria’s Chief of Army Staff, has passed away at the age of 56, following an illness.
A statement from Presidential Spokesman Bayo Onanuga confirmed that he died on Tuesday night, November 5, in Lagos. 
He is known for his remarkable contributions to Nigeria’s internal security. Lt. General Lagbaja dedicated his life to the nation’s defense, serving in pivotal roles across numerous operations, including Operation ZAKI in Benue, Lafiya Dole in Borno, and Operation Forest Sanity in Kaduna and the Niger States.
His career began with his enrollment in the Nigerian Defense Academy in 1987, and he was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the Nigerian Infantry Corps in 1992.
Appointed Chief of Army Staff by President Tinubu in June 2023, Lagbaja quickly established himself as a formidable leader in the armed forces.
President Tinubu extended his condolences to Lagbaja’s family and the Nigerian Armed Forces, honoring him as a “significant contributor” to Nigeria’s security and stability.
Furthermore, as an alumnus of the U.S. Army War College with a Master’s in Strategic Studies, Lt. General Lagbaja demonstrated a commitment to excellence that inspired the younger generation of military officers.
“May his soul rest in peace,” President Tinubu said, lauding him as both a role model and mentor.
He is survived by his wife, Mariya, and their two children, who, along with the nation, mourn a leader who upheld the values of dedication and courage in service to his country.
