BREAKING: President Tinubu Confirms Death of Chief of Army Staff Lagbaja

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has officially announced the passing of Nigeria’s Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja. The 56-year-old military leader reportedly died in Lagos on Tuesday night after a period of illness. Presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga conveyed the news in a statement released on Wednesday, though specific details regarding Lagbaja’s illness were not disclosed.

Expressing his condolences, President Tinubu extended heartfelt sympathy to Lagbaja’s family and the entire Nigerian Armed Forces. He acknowledged Lagbaja’s significant contributions to national security and stability and offered prayers for his eternal peace.

Lt. General Lagbaja was appointed as Chief of Army Staff in June 2023, serving for one year and four months. Born on February 28, 1968, Lagbaja embarked on his military journey in 1987 at the Nigerian Defence Academy, later commissioning as a Second Lieutenant in the Nigerian Infantry Corps in 1992. Over his career, he served in various critical roles, including platoon commander positions in the 93 and 72 Special Forces Battalions. Lagbaja also led major operations, such as Operation ZAKI in Benue State, Lafiya Dole in Borno, and Operation Forest Sanity in Kaduna and Niger States, displaying a steadfast dedication to military excellence.

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An alumnus of the prestigious U.S. Army War College, Lagbaja earned a Master’s degree in Strategic Studies, underscoring his commitment to leadership and military strategy. He is survived by his wife, Mariya, and their two children.

Rumors and Transition

In late October, speculation regarding Lagbaja’s health surfaced, with unconfirmed reports suggesting he had passed away in an overseas hospital. However, the Defence Headquarters swiftly denied these rumors, clarifying that Lagbaja was on annual leave and that Major General Abdulsalami Bagudu Ibrahim, Chief of Policy and Plans (Army), was overseeing operations in his absence.

To ensure continuity during Lagbaja’s absence, President Tinubu appointed Major General Olufemi Olatubosun Oluyede as Acting Chief of Army Staff on October 30. Oluyede assumed office on November 1, 2024, to oversee ongoing military operations.

New Leadership and Future Steps

Following his appointment as Acting COAS, Oluyede was formally promoted to Lieutenant General by President Tinubu. As a potential permanent successor, Oluyede awaits Senate confirmation to assume the role of Nigeria’s substantive Chief of Army Staff.

A distinguished military officer, Oluyede has held numerous command roles, including the position of 56th Commander of the Infantry Corps based in Jaji, Kaduna. A 1992 commission from the Nigerian Defence Academy’s 39th Regular Course, Oluyede has demonstrated considerable leadership in operations such as the ECOWAS ECOMOG mission in Liberia and Operation HADIN KAI in Nigeria’s Northeast.

As the Nigerian Army navigates this transitional period, President Tinubu and military officials have reiterated the institution’s resilience, stability, and preparedness in fulfilling its duties.

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