What to Know About the Late Chief of Army Staff, Taoreed Lagbaja

Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, Nigeria’s Chief of Army Staff, passed away at age 56, leaving a legacy marked by dedication and service.

His passing was announced in a statement by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President, confirming President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s deep regret over the nation’s loss. Here’s a closer look at his life, career, and contributions.

Early Life and Education

Taoreed Lagbaja was born on February 28, 1968, in Ilobu, located in Osun State’s Irepodun Local Government Area. He spent his early years in the nearby town of Osogbo, where he completed his basic education. 

He attended St. Charles Grammar School and then continued his studies at the Local Authority Teachers College. These formative years grounded him with discipline and resilience, traits that would shape his future in the military.

Despite his demanding career, Lt. General Lagbaja was a devoted family man. He is survived by his wife, Mariya, and their two children. His family was his support system, standing by him through the many challenges and relocations that came with his military service.

Military Beginnings at the Nigerian Defence Academy

In 1987, Lagbaja was admitted to the prestigious Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) as part of its 39th Regular Course. His journey at the NDA marked the start of an illustrious military career. 

On September 19, 1992, he was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the Nigerian Infantry Corps, stepping into a role that would define the rest of his life.

While at the NDA, Lagbaja earned a bachelor’s degree in geography, reflecting his commitment to academic growth alongside military training. Later, he went on to pursue a master’s degree in strategic studies at the U.S. Army War College. This advanced education helped him develop a broader understanding of military strategy and global security.

Early Roles and Instructional Work

Lagbaja’s career involved a mix of field and instructional roles, where he shared his experience and knowledge with new cadets. From 2001 to 2004, he was an instructor at the NDA, returning to where his own journey had begun to mentor the next generation of officers. 

He also served as a Grade 2 Staff Officer in charge of peacekeeping at Army Headquarters, working on key peacekeeping initiatives that extended beyond Nigeria’s borders.

From 2006 to 2009, he became a Directing Staff at the Armed Forces Command and Staff College, where he once again had the chance to teach and shape future leaders. This combination of field experience and instructional work helped him develop a unique perspective on leadership and strategy.

Specialized military training, command roles in international and local operations

Throughout his career, Lagbaja actively pursued further training to hone his skills. In 2008, he completed the Military Observers Course at the Nigerian Army School of Infantry in Jaji. He also attended the ECOWAS Standby Force Battalion Command Post Course at the Peacekeeping Centre in Bamako, Mali, in 2010. 

These courses prepared him to take on roles in peacekeeping missions and other specialized operations, enhancing his ability to lead under complex conditions.

Lt. General Lagbaja’s career was characterized by command roles in several important military operations. He served in the Bakassi Peninsula under Operation HARMONY IV, a critical assignment during a time of heightened tensions in the area. 

His experience also extended to international peacekeeping efforts, including serving with the United Nations Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo. On the home front, he led troops in Operation ZAKI, one of the operations aimed at addressing security challenges within Nigeria.

Recognized for his dedication and expertise, President Bola Tinubu appointed Taoreed Lagbaja as Chief of Army Staff on June 19, 2023. orce.