Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, Nigeria’s Chief of Army Staff, passed away on Tuesday night in Lagos after a prolonged illness, as confirmed by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, in a statement titled, “Announcement of the Passing of Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja.”

“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, regrets to announce the passing of Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, Chief of the Army Staff, at age 56,” the statement read. President Tinubu extended his “heartfelt condolences to the family and the Nigerian Armed Forces during this difficult time,” adding, “He wishes Lt. General Lagbaja eternal peace and honours his significant contributions to the nation.”

Appointed as Chief of Army Staff on June 19, 2023, Lagbaja was noted for his distinguished service, holding roles in various internal security operations, including Operation ZAKI in Benue State, Lafiya Dole in Borno, Udoka in the Southeast, and Operation Forest Sanity in Kaduna and Niger States. An alumnus of the U.S. Army War College, he is survived by his wife, Mariya, and their two children.

In light of Lagbaja’s illness, President Tinubu appointed Olufemi Oluyede as the acting Chief of Army Staff last week. On Tuesday, Tinubu officially decorated Oluyede as Lieutenant General, stating, “It is both an honour and a privilege to decorate you today. This recognition reflects your commitment and service to the Nigerian military, which speaks volumes through your exemplary record. We recognise all that you have been doing to ensure the country is safe and stable.”