President Bola Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, who died following a brief illness.
The late Army Chief passed away at the age of 56.
In a statement on Wednesday, issued by Segun Imohiosen, Director of Information & Public Relations for the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, President Tinubu directed that national flags be flown at half-mast across the country for seven days to honor the fallen Army Chief.
The President expressed heartfelt appreciation for Lagbaja’s service to the nation and extended his condolences to the bereaved family, wishing them strength to bear the loss.
President Tinubu had earlier announced the Chief of Army Staff’s passing.
Born on February 28, 1968, Lagbaja was appointed Chief of Army Staff by President Tinubu in June 2023, serving in this role for one year and four months. His military career began at the Nigerian Defence Academy in 1987, and he was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the Nigerian Infantry Corps on September 19, 1992, as part of the 39th Regular Course.
Lt. General Lagbaja also served as a platoon commander in the 93 Battalion and the 72 Special Forces Battalion.
He played crucial roles in several 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.
A graduate of the prestigious U.S. Army War College, he earned 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 wife, Mariya, and their two children.