Nigeria’s army chief dies aged 56

Nigeria’s Chief of Army Staff, General Taoreed Lagbaja, has passed away at the age of 56 after a period of illness, as confirmed by President Bola Tinubu. General Lagbaja died on Tuesday night in Lagos, though the specifics of his illness were not disclosed.

In a statement shared by presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), President Tinubu extended his “heartfelt condolences” to the late general’s family and the Nigerian Armed Forces. The president also praised Lagbaja’s contributions to the nation, honoring his role in safeguarding Nigeria’s security.

“President Tinubu wishes Lt General Lagbaja eternal peace and honors his significant contributions to the nation,” the statement read. The death of General Lagbaja is seen as a substantial loss for the Nigerian military, where he was known for his pivotal role in numerous internal security operations and efforts to maintain national stability.

General Lagbaja’s death comes at a time when the Nigerian military is engaged in complex security challenges across the country, including ongoing counterinsurgency efforts against groups like Boko Haram and other armed militias in the northeast, as well as clashes with separatist movements in the southeast. His leadership in these sensitive operations had earned him respect within the armed forces and beyond.

The late general is survived by his wife, Mariya, and their two children, with the nation and the military community mourning his untimely passing. As one of the highest-ranking officers in Nigeria’s military, General Lagbaja’s death leaves a void in the leadership of the country’s defense establishment.

Throughout his career, General Lagbaja was known not only for his military acumen but also for his commitment to improving the Nigerian Army’s capabilities. His leadership was central to the country’s efforts to maintain internal security during periods of heightened unrest, and he was deeply involved in various strategic decisions that shaped the army’s approach to national defense.

President Tinubu, in his message of condolence, expressed profound sadness at the loss of a dedicated officer and emphasized the lasting impact of Lagbaja’s service to Nigeria. The military community has since echoed these sentiments, with many expressing respect for his professional legacy and his contributions to Nigeria’s security.

In the wake of his passing, questions about who will succeed General Lagbaja as Army Chief have emerged, with political and military leaders expected to make decisions in the coming days to fill the leadership gap. The country’s ongoing security challenges, including rising insurgency and criminal activity in several regions, will make the selection of his successor crucial in ensuring the military’s ability to effectively respond to these threats.

As Nigerians process this loss, the memory of General Lagbaja’s contributions to the army and the nation will undoubtedly remain. His family, friends, and colleagues, as well as the broader military establishment, will mourn his death, but his legacy in the Nigerian Armed Forces is set to endure.