The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has confirmed that Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja is receiving medical treatment abroad while on his annual leave.
In a statement released on Saturday, Onyema Nwachukwu, the Director of Army Public Relations, reassured the public that there is no leadership void in the Nigerian Army during Lagbaja’s absence.
Nwachukwu’s statement follows public concerns about Lagbaja’s absence from recent military events, with some speculating that there may be a leadership gap.
To address these concerns, Nwachukwu stated, “There have been times when unforeseen circumstances have kept service chiefs away for up to three months,” adding that the notion of a leadership vacuum is far from accurate.
He emphasized that the Nigerian Army is a highly structured organization with established protocols in place for such situations.
Before going on leave, Lt. Gen. Lagbaja had decided to ensure operations continue smoothly, with Maj.-Gen. Abdulsalami Ibrahim, the Chief of Policy and Plans (Army), serving as acting COAS in his absence.
“Some have suggested there is confusion among officers about what to do. Nothing could be further from the truth,” Nwachukwu clarified. “The Nigerian Army operates under a strict system with clearly defined processes for dealing with such situations.”
He further assured the public that all routine and scheduled activities in the Army are proceeding as planned. “The relevant departmental heads are fulfilling their responsibilities in accordance with the COAS’s directives,” he added, encouraging the public to dismiss any rumors.
The DHQ also expressed gratitude to Nigerians who have shown concern for Lt. Gen. Lagbaja’s health. “We thank all well-meaning Nigerians who have expressed genuine concern and continue to pray for him,” said Nwachukwu.
He concluded by assuring both Nigerians and the international community that the Army’s training, operational, and administrative functions are progressing as planned.
“The COPP(A) is effectively managing the affairs of the service until the COAS returns,” Nwachukwu affirmed.
