The Federal Government of Nigeria has finally confirmed the death of Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen Taoreed Lagbaja.
The death of the general was announced on Wednesday by President Bola Tinubu.
In a statement issued by the Spokesman of the President, Bayo Onanuga, the army chief was said to have died in Lagos on Tuesday.
Part of the statement reads:
“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.”
There have been controversy over the death of the army chief as military authorities countered news of the general’s death three weeks ago warning Nigeria media to desist from circulating what it called “fake news.”
FACTSHEET reports that Tuesday, President Bola Tinubu approved the elevation of the Acting Chief of Army Staff, … Oluyede to the rank of Lt. General in preparation for assuming office as substantive Chief of Army Staff.