Chief Of Army Staff Lagbaja is Dead 

iexclusivenews – Chief Of Army Staff, Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, has passed away at the age of 56, as announced by President Bola Tinubu. The news has sent shockwaves through the nation, marking a significant loss for the Nigerian Armed Forces.

Chief Of Army Staff Lagbaja’s Death

Chief Of Army Staff Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja passed away on Tuesday night in Lagos after a period of illness, according to a statement released by the President’s spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, on Wednesday. The specific illness was not disclosed.

President Tinubu expressed his heartfelt condolences to the family and the Nigerian Armed Forces during this difficult time, honoring Lt. General Lagbaja’s significant contributions to the nation.

A Distinguished Military Career

Born on February 28, 1968, Lt. General Lagbaja had a distinguished military career. He served as the Chief of Army Staff for one year and four months following his appointment by President Tinubu in June 2023.

His military journey 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.

Key Roles and Operations

Lt. General Lagbaja 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.

Family and Legacy

Lt. General Lagbaja is survived by his beloved wife, Mariya, and their two children. His passing leaves a void in the Nigerian Armed Forces and the hearts of those who knew him.

President Tinubu wished Lt. General Lagbaja eternal peace and honored his significant contributions to the nation.

Death Rumours

In late October, there were rumours that the Chief of Army Staff had died in an undisclosed hospital abroad. However, the Defence Headquarters quickly dispelled the rumours, insisting that the CAS was on annual leave.

Army spokesman, Onyema Nwachukwu, emphasized that there was no leadership vacuum in the Army, noting that the Chief of Policy and Plans (Army), Major General Abdulsalami Ibrahim, had been positioned to act on behalf of the COAS during his absence.

Appointment of Acting COAS

As Lagbaja’s absence lingered, President Tinubu appointed Major General Olufemi Olatubosun Oluyede as the Acting Chief of Army Staff on October 30. Oluyede was to hold the position pending the return of Lt. General Lagbaja, who was said to be indisposed and receiving treatment abroad.

Following his appointment, Oluyede was decorated by President Tinubu as a Lieutenant General.

Oluyede’s Military Background and Experience

Until his appointment, Oluyede served as the 56th Commander of the elite Infantry Corps of the Nigerian Army, based in Jaji, Kaduna. The 56-year-old Oluyede and Lagbaja were coursemates and members of the 39th Regular Course.

He was commissioned a second lieutenant in 1992, effective from 1987, and rose to Major-General in September 2020.

Oluyede has held many commands since his commissioning as an officer. He was Platoon Commander and adjutant at 65 Battalion, Company Commander at 177 Guards Battalion, Staff Officer Guards Brigade, and Commandant Amphibious Training School.

General Oluyede participated in several operations, including the Economic Community of West African States Monitoring Group (ECOMOG) Mission in Liberia, Operation HARMONY IV in Bakassi, and Operation HADIN KAI in the North East theatre of operations, where he commanded 27 Task Force Brigade.

Oluyede has earned many honours for his meritorious service in various fields of operations. These include the Corps Medal of Honour, the Grand Service Star, Passing the Staff Course, and Membership in the National Institute. If confirmed by the Senate, Oluyede will become the substantive army chief, permanently replacing Lagbaja.