BREAKING: Lagbaja, the Chief of Army Staff, Passed Away.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has confirmed the passing of Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, who served as the Chief of the Army Staff. Lt. General Lagbaja was 56 years old at the time of his death. A statement released by Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, indicated that he passed away on Tuesday night in Lagos following a period of illness. The statement noted, “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, deeply regrets to announce the death of Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, Chief of the Army Staff, at the age of 56. “He died on Tuesday night in Lagos after battling an illness. “Born on February 28, 1968, Lt. General Lagbaja was appointed as Chief of Army Staff on June 19, 2023, by President Tinubu. “His illustrious military career commenced with his enrollment in the Nigerian Defence Academy in 1987. He was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the Nigerian Infantry Corps on September 19, 1992, as part of the 39th Regular Course. “During his service, Lt. General Lagbaja exhibited remarkable leadership and dedication, having served as a platoon commander in both the 93 Battalion and the 72 Special Forces Battalion. “He was instrumental in various internal security operations, including Operation ZAKI in Benue State, Lafiya Dole in Borno, Udoka in Southeast Nigeria, and Operation Forest Sanity in Kaduna and Niger States. “An alumnus of the esteemed U.S. Army War College, he obtained a Master’s degree in Strategic Studies, reflecting his commitment to professional development and excellence in military leadership. “Lt. General Lagbaja is survived by his cherished wife, Mariya, and their two children. “President Tinubu extends his sincere condolences to the family and the Nigerian Armed Forces during this challenging time. He wishes Lt. General Lagbaja eternal peace and pays tribute to his significant contributions to the nation.”