The Nigerian military and the nation are mourning the death of Lieutenant General Lagbaja, the
Chief of Army Staff (COAS), who passed away on Tuesday night in Lagos after battling a prolonged illness.
The confirmation of his death comes after repeated denials by both the presidency and the Defence Headquarters, who had consistently refuted widespread rumors earlier this year about his passing.
A statement issued by Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser on Information and Strategy to President Bola Tinubu, confirmed that General Lagbaja had been receiving medical treatment at an undisclosed hospital before his death. He was 56 years old.
“Born on February 28, 1968, Lt. General Lagbaja was appointed Chief of Army Staff on June 19, 2023, by President Tinubu,” the statement noted. “His passing comes after a brief period of illness.”
A Distinguished Military Career
Lt. General Lagbaja’s career in the Nigerian Army began in 1987 when he enrolled at the Nigerian Defence Academy. He was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant on September 19, 1992, as part of the 39th Regular Course.
Throughout his career, he held numerous key positions, including platoon commander in the 93 Battalion and 72 Special Forces Battalion, and played significant roles in critical military operations such as Operation ZAKI in Benue State, Lafiya Dole in Borno, and Operation Forest Sanity across Kaduna and Niger States.
His leadership during these operations was highly praised for bolstering national security.
An alumnus of the prestigious U.S. Army War College, General Lagbaja earned a Master’s degree in Strategic Studies, furthering his commitment to professional growth and military excellence.
Tributes and Condolences
Lt. General Lagbaja is survived by his wife, Mariya, and their two children. In his tribute, President Tinubu extended his heartfelt condolences to the family, the Nigerian Army, and the nation at large, recognizing the late COAS for his service and unwavering dedication to the country.
“The president wishes Lt. General Lagbaja eternal peace and honours his significant contributions to the nation,” the statement read.
Succession and Army Leadership Changes.
In a remarkable twist, despite numerous rumors earlier this year regarding the health of
General Lagbaja, the Defence Headquarters and the presidency had repeatedly dismissed the claims.
As late as October 20, the Nigerian Army issued a statement refuting reports of his death, insisting that the COAS was undergoing medical treatment abroad. These denials persisted even as concerns mounted within the military and beyond.
However, by October 30, President Tinubu appointed Major General Olufemi Oluyede as the Acting Chief of Army Staff, signaling a leadership transition.
On November 5, Oluyede was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant General, completing the shift in the Army’s top leadership.
The passing of
General Lagbaja marks the end of an era for the Nigerian military, which will feel the loss of a respected and dedicated officer who led the Army during a turbulent period in the country’s security landscape.
His death has been compounded by the abrupt retirement of over a dozen generals, signaling further changes within the Nigerian Army as the nation moves forward under new leadership.