Taoreed Lagbaja, Nigerian Chief of Army Staff has been announced dead. This announcement came after the appointment of Olufemi Oluyede as the Acting Chief of Army Staff, and his promotion to a Lieutenant General.
The late Army veteran was appointed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on the 23rd of June, 2023 to succeed Lt. General Farook Yahaya Ahmed.
In this article, Thefamousnaija brings you facts to know about the late Chief of Army Staff.
Early Life and Background
Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja was born on the 28th of February, 1968 in Irepodun, Osun State where he hailed from.
Lagbaja had his early education at St. Charles Grammar School Osogbo and also proceeded to Local Authority Teacher’s College. He then proceeded upon admission to the Nigerian Defense Academy in 1987, as a member of the 39th Regular Course.
He was commissioned upon graduation as a second lieutenant in 1992.
Career and Achievements
Lieutenant General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja had a distinguished military career, beginning as a platoon commander in the 93 Battalion and 72 Special Forces Battalion.
He also served as an instructor at the Nigerian Defence Academy and held various staff positions.
In the course of service, Taoreed Lagbaja held several key positions, including:
– Commanding Officer at 72 Special Forces Battalion
– Chief of Staff at Headquarters 8 Task Force Division
– Director of Operations at the Army Headquarters Department of Army Training and Operations.
Operations Led
He played pivotal roles in major security operations such as Operation ZAKI in Benue State, Lafiya Dole in Borno, and Operation Forest Sanity in Kaduna and Niger States.
Achievements as Chief of Army Staff
Upon appointment as Chief of Army Staff by President Bola Tinubu in June 2023, Taoreed Lagbaja focused on reforming and modernizing the Nigerian Army, enhancing its effectiveness in dealing with contemporary security challenges.
– Legacy: His leadership was characterized by a commitment to stability and security in Nigeria’s most challenging regions.
Personal Life and Legacy
– Family: Lagbaja is survived by his wife, Mariya, and their two children.
– Passing: He passed away on November 5, 2024, at the age of 56, after a brief illness.
Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja’s career was marked by dedication, leadership, and significant contributions to Nigeria’s military and security landscape.
