By Kehinde Olusegun
The announcement of the untimely passing of the Chief of Army Staff( COAS), leaves a profound void in our nation’s defense and security leadership.
Lt. General Taoreed Lagbaja was born in Ilobu, Irepodun Local Government Area, Osun State on 28 February 1968. He was 56-year-old and the 23rd Chief of Army Staff.
He attended St Charles Grammar School and Local Authority Teachers College Demonstration School both in Osogbo between 1973 – 1979, The Polytechnic, Ibadan from 1984 to 1986 and obtained West African School Certificate (Advanced Level).
Lagbaja got admitted into the Nigerian Defence Academy on September 12, 1987 as a member of 39th Regular Course and was commissioned as 2nd Lieutenant on September 19, 1992 into the Nigerian Army Infantry Corps.
He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Geography from NDA Kaduna and a Master’s from U.S. Army War College.
Until his elevation as COAS, Lagbaja was the Chief of Operation (Army) and had served as General Officer Commanding 1 Division, Kaduna, and 82 Division, Nigerian Army Enugu. He held command positions in several military operations, including Operation HARMONY IV in the Bakassi Peninsula, the United Nations Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Operation ZAki. He was also part of the Internal Security Operation in Benue, Operation LAFIYA DOLE, Operation Mesa/Udoka, and Internal Security Operation in the South East.
As GOC 1 Division in Kaduna, he led troops of Operation Forest Sanity in confronting terrorists in Kaduna and Niger States.
Lagbaja was appointed Chief of Army Staff on June 19, 2023, by President Tinubu.
Throughout his career, Lt. General Lagbaja demonstrated exceptional leadership and commitment, serving as a platoon commander in the 93 Battalion and the 72 Special Forces Battalion. He played pivotal roles in numerous internal security operations.
An alumnus of the prestigious U.S. Army War College, he earned a Master’s degree in Strategic Studies, demonstrating his dedication to professional growth and excellence in military leadership.
His efforts in modernizing the Nigerian Army, enhancing troop welfare, and prioritizing the safety of civilians have left an indelible impact on our armed forces and on the country.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, General Lagbaja was a leader who inspired confidence in those he led, and a figure whose calm strength steadied those around him. He understood the sacrifices required of soldiers and worked tirelessly to support them, earning deep respect from his colleagues and the nation he served. Lt Gen Lagbaja’s legacy is one of patriotism and selfless service.
SAHEL STANDARD Media mourn the Nation’s loss, honor the life of a true hero who has given so much to secure a safer future for Nigeria. We expresses our heartfelt condolences to the family, the Nigerian Armed Forces, people of Ilobu, Osun State and Nigeria in general during this difficult time.
No words can express the loss we feel, but in spite of this, we are thankful to God for giving us a true gem of our times. A man who inspired selfless love and sacrifice for his people in a humble and quiet way. Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja embodied dedication, courage, and an unwavering commitment to the protection of Nigeria and its people. A man of great integrity, who dedicated decades of service to our nation, rising through the ranks to lead with vision, wisdom, and honor.
We extol your gallantry, dedication, and legacies throughout your service years in the Nigerian Army and the Armed Forces of Nigeria in general. Thank you for being a shining light of hope to all.
May your soul rest in eternal peace, and may your memory continue to inspire courage and commitment in the generations to come.
Lt. General Lagbaja is survived by his beloved wife, Mariya, and two children.
