**Nigeria Mourns the Loss of Its Late Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja**
The news of the unfortunate passing of Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, the Chief of Army Staff, has sent shockwaves across Nigeria. His death, just under a year after his appointment by President Bola Tinubu, is a significant blow to the nation’s military leadership. Here are 15 key facts about the late COAS:
**Early Life and Education**
Born on February 28, 1968, in Ilobu, Osun State, Nigeria, Lagbaja’s journey in the military began early. He was an alumnus of the US Army War College and a Nigerian Army lieutenant general. He was admitted to the Nigerian Defence Academy as part of the 39th Regular Course in 1987.
**Military Career**
Commissioned into the Nigerian Army in 1992, Lagbaja went on to serve in various capacities. He was a platoon commander in the 93 Battalion and the 72 Special Forces Battalion. His experience in internal security operations was extensive, with notable involvement in Operation ZAKI in Benue State, Lafiya Dole in Borno, Udoka in Southeast Nigeria, and Operation Forest Sanity across Kaduna and Niger States.
**Leadership and Legacy**
As the Chief of Army Staff from June 2023 to November 2024, Lagbaja was instrumental in several initiatives. He was appointed by President Bola Tinubu on June 19, 2023, to succeed Lieutenant General Faruk Yahaya. During his tenure, he was a strong advocate for the welfare of troops. He increased the Ration Cash Allowance, ensured prompt payment of medical evacuation allowances, and more.
**Key Accomplishments**
Under his leadership, the army achieved significant successes, including the elimination of over 300 terrorist commanders and the surrender of many militants to government forces. He also brought to life the long-envisioned goal of establishing an aviation wing within the Nigerian Army to provide essential air support for ground operations.
**Personal Touch**
Lagbaja was known for his eagerness to connect with soldiers, often visiting conflict zones to boost morale. His untimely death, at the age of 56, came after just 505 days in office following a brief illness. The nation mourns the loss of a dedicated and exceptional military leader.
