According to a statement from Presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga, Lt. General Lagbaja died on Tuesday night, November 5, in Lagos after an illness.
Born on February 28, 1968, Lt. General Lagbaja was appointed Chief of Army Staff on June 19, 2023, by President Tinubu.
His distinguished military career began at the Nigerian Defence Academy in 1987, and he was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the Nigerian Infantry Corps on September 19, 1992, as part of the 39th Regular Course.
Throughout his career, Lt. General Lagbaja showed remarkable leadership, serving as a platoon commander in both the 93 Battalion and the 72 Special Forces Battalion.
He played key roles in numerous internal security missions, including Operation ZAKI in Benue State, Lafiya Dole in Borno, Udoka in the Southeast, and Operation Forest Sanity in Kaduna and Niger States.
A graduate of the prestigious U.S. Army War College, Lt. General Lagbaja held a Master’s degree in Strategic Studies, highlighting his dedication to military excellence.
He is survived by his wife, Mariya, and their two children.
President Tinubu extended his condolences to Lt. General Lagbaja’s family and the Nigerian Armed Forces, honoring his service and praying for his eternal peace.
May he rest in peace.
