Tinubu announces death of COAS, Lt.-Gen. Lagbaja

President Bola Tinubu regrets to announce the passing of Lt.-Gen.Taoreed Lagbaja, Chief of the Army Staff, at age 56.

Mr Bayo Onanuga, the President’s spokesman, said in a statement on Wednesday that Lagbaja died on Tuesday night in Lagos after a period of illness.

Born on Feb. 28, 1968, 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 Sept. 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.-Gen. Lagbaja demonstrated exceptional leadership and commitment, serving as a platoon commander in the 93 Battalion and the 72 Special Forces Battalion,” said Tinubu.

The President expressed his condolences to the family and the Nigerian Armed Forces during this difficult time.

“He wishes Lt.-Gen. Lagbaja eternal peace and honours his significant contributions to the nation,” said the statement.