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Tag: Taoreed Lagbaja

  • Lagbaja was selfless, prioritised troops’ welfare, says CDC

    Lagbaja was selfless, prioritised troops’ welfare, says CDC

    • Osun community urges Fed Govt to immortalise ex-COAS

    The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, has said the late Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, was a courageous soldier and a man of faith who championed troops’ welfare.

    Oluyede said this during the first remembrance church service held in honour of the late COAS yesterday in Abuja.

    The CDS described the late Lagbaja as an exemplary professional soldier and a devout Christian whose faith guided his conduct.

    He noted that Lagbaja’s courage, empathy, and generosity reflected his deep faith and strong sense of justice.

    Oluyede said: “Before this time last year, we were all mourning this great man. But today, we are here to celebrate him, a soldier’s soldier, a true soldier of Christ and a friend to many. “His life teaches us to ask ourselves what we will be remembered for — for greed or for goodness, for selfishness or for service.”

    The CDS said he was confident that the late army chief was resting peacefully in heaven, adding that his legacy of dedication and compassion would continue to inspire those he left behind.

    “I pray that God will never forsake his family. As for me, I will stand by them for as long as I live,” he said.

    Oluyede commended the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Wahidi Shaibu, for honouring the memory of his predecessor and the clergy for their inspiring message, while thanking all who attended the memorial.

    Read Also: CDS Oluyede honours late COAS Lagbaja’s selfless services

    Reading from the book of 2 Timothy 2:1-4 his sermon, titled: A Good Soldier of Jesus Christ, the Acting Director of Chaplaincy Services (Protestant) of the Nigerian Army, Lt.-Col. Bitrus Nyam, said the late COAS represented Christ and was also a good father who nurtured his children and wanted to see them become better than him.

    Nyam said the late Lt.-Gen. Lagbaja fulfilled four exemplary demands as contained in the scripture. These, the cleric said, included being strong in the grace of Christ Jesus.

    “The late Lagbaja was not a distracted soldier but an exemplary one who remained focused till the end,” he said.

    The church service was attended by two former Chiefs of Defence Staff, Gen. Lucky Irabor and Gen. Christopher Musa with their wives; Oluyede’s wife, who is the President of the Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association (DEPOWA); the widow of the late Lt.-Gen. Lagbaja, Mrs. Mariya, accompanied by Mrs. Safiyah Shaibu, wife of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), and President of Nigerian Army Officers Wives Association (NAOWA), and other serving and retired officers.

    Also, Ilobu community, the headquarters of Irepodun Local Government Area of Osun State, has begged the Federal Government to immortalise the late Lagbaja.

    The community, which suspended its yearly anniversary in 2024 to mourn the demise of Lagbaja, announced this uear’s anniversary through the President of Ilobu-Asake Development Union (IADU), Pastor Olufemi Salako.

    Speaking about the late Lagbaja, Pastor Salako said: “If you come into our town today, there is nothing to show that we have produced a son like Lagbaja. It is unfortunate that there is nothing to show visitors that our town produced such a prominent figure.

    “We need to show him to the world that he has done extraordinarily well for that state and the country at large, so we want him to be immortalised.”

    Salako added: “We are still engaging the Federal Government and the Army to come and do something for us. Although before Lagbaja’s death, the Nigerian Army community built a modern hospital for us, which is not named after him. The federal government and the Army should immortalise our son in his hometown.”

    The community wooed investors into the community after a communal conflict in which property estimated at over N2 billion was destroyed.

    The community urged Governor Ademola Adeleke to provide succour to the residents of Ifon, Ilobu, and Erin, who were the most affected during the deadly clash.

    Salako said: “While we believe that the era of commotions has gone, the scars are still there. Over N2 billion properties destroyed remain in ruins. We call on Governor Ademola Adeleke to help us in providing succour to those seriously affected by the crisis, most especially this year’s crisis.

    “Businesses were devastated, and many are yet to recover. Many families became homeless due to the crisis.”

  • Army renames Ikeja Cantonment to honour Gen. Lagbaja

    Army renames Ikeja Cantonment to honour Gen. Lagbaja

    • Sanwo-Olu, CDS Musa, others extol late COAS virtues

    The Nigerian Army, yesterday, honoured the late Chief of the Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja by renaming the Cantonment after him.

    The popular Ikeja Cantonment is now to be known as T.A. Lagbaja Cantonment, Ikeja.

    The renaming ceremony which was held yesterday followed impressive facility upgrades including an engraved picture of Lagbaja made with over 400,000 nails in front of the refurbished main gate to the cantonment; digital boards; remodelled accommodation for Commander 9 Brigade; newly built residence of Commander 70 Supply and Transport Command; renovated seven by Corporal Below and three by Senior Non-Commissioned Officers (SNCOs) quarters.

    The Nation reports that the event coincided with the posthumous 57th birthday of the late COAS and brought together military top shots including all serving members of Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) Course 39, Lagbaja’s coursemates.

    Delivering a goodwill message at the ceremony, Lagos Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, said naming the cantonment after Lagbaja was a testament of gratitude and recognition of his courage, service and patriotism.

    He said: “This cantonment has not only been a symbol of courage. It has been a symbol of discipline and fidelity. It has been home to thousands of brave men and women who have defended the sovereignty of our nation with their lives in the greatest moment of triumph, resilience, and sacrifice.

    “Therefore, renaming it after Lieutenant General Lagbaja is a fitting tribute to a leader, a gentleman, and an officer whose life embodies all of his values. A distinguished infantry officer who served in the Nigerian Army with dedication for over three decades; who played key roles in counter-insurgent operations, internal security, and peace-keeping missions.

    “By renaming this cantonment after him, we are sending a strong message to our Armed Forces and to future generations that Nigeria will always honour and celebrate our brave men and women in uniform, not just in times of conflict but in moments of peace. We must remind them that their sacrifice will not go unrecognised.”

    He commended President Bola Tinubu for approving the renaming of the cantonment, noting that his administration has by the gesture, demonstrated its commitment to supporting the Armed Forces.

    Sanwo-Olu restated his government’s commitment to providing collaboration, infrastructural and welfare support to security services to safeguard Lagos.

    “Lieutenant General Lagbaja’s existence in Nigeria’s security landscape, his leadership in counterterrorism, and his unwavering commitment to professionalism in the Nigerian Army are worthy of our honour. His name will now be permanently etched in the foundation of this cantonment to remind us of all of the values we seek- service, excellence and selflessness,” he said.

    To Lagbaja’s wife, Mrs. Mariam Lagbaja, Sanwo-Olu encouraged her to always walk with pride because her husband was a good leader who served professionally with everything he had.

    In his address, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, said the act was a military tradition done to immortalize distinguished personalities, who made significant contributions to strengthening and repositioning the Armed Forces to meet its constitutional mandate.

    Read Also: BREAKING: Ikeja military cantonment renamed ‘T. A. Lagbaja cantonment’  

    “Today, we are gathered here to immortalise the late Lieutenant General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, CFR who, until his passing late last year, epitomised the highest military values of courage, selflessness and strategic acumen that made him a revered figure. 

    “His transformational leadership and commitment to ensuring the Nigerian Army navigates the ever-evolving global security landscape serve as a testament to his legacy and vision for a stronger and highly efficient army. 

    “Not only did Gen Lagbaja embody the meaning of honour, loyalty and military professionalism, he was a loving husband and father, a dear friend and above all, a remarkable gentleman and true brother-in-arms.

    “I am deeply elated that the leadership of the Nigerian Army has chosen to immortalise General Lagbaja as a legacy to his contributions to the Nigerian Army, and the Armed Forces of Nigeria.  The choice of the Ikeja Military Cantonment, home to Headquarters 9 Brigade Nigerian Army which the late Chief of Army Staff commanded, is a fitting tribute to his enduring sacrifice and visionary leadership.

    “This Cantonment has a long-standing history in the annals of the Nigerian Army and General Lagbaja remains a fixed point in that history, from his exemplary leadership as Brigade Commander to the numerous infrastructural legacies under his watch as Chief of Army Staff.

    “In this vein, I wholeheartedly support and appreciate the decision of the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General OO Oluyede, to rename this Cantonment after Late Lt Gen Lagbaja. It is a remarkable demonstration of camaraderie that will resonate across generations that are here to bear witness and those yet to come.”

    The CDS thanked President Tinubu for his relentless support and strategic guidance to the Armed Forces in its mission to safeguard our national security. 

    “Let me use this opportunity to once again assure the citizens of our beloved nation that the Armed Forces of Nigeria remain committed to protecting our nation’s territorial integrity and sovereignty. 

    “As we honour the legacy and memory of the Twenty-Third Chief of Army Staff of Nigeria, I appeal for the public’s continued support and collaboration to address contemporary security challenges of our country.  Together, we can achieve the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda for a better Nigeria for all…

    “May TA Lagbaja Cantonment continue to serve as a vital asset in our collective efforts to safeguard the sovereignty and territorial integrity of our nation. Thank you and God Bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” said Gen. Musa.

    In his welcome address, the COAS, Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, said Lagbaja’s legal IRS had continued to positively impact the lives of soldiers and their families.

    “Legacies that are enduring and lay credence to the depth of selflessness and dedication to duty, which mere words cannot express but one can only quantify through irrepressible adoration.

    “It is in our bid to make the good memories of our late leaders outlive their generation and etch their deeds in marble that the Nigerian Army names barracks and cantonments after prominent personalities, campaigns, and events.

    “On this premise, cantonments and barracks are named after Chiefs of Army Staff who died on active service. Consequently, the Special Forces Barracks in Makurdi was named after Colonel Joe Akaahan, who died in a helicopter crash during the Civil War, and this famous Ikeja Cantonment is today being renamed TA Lagbaja Cantonment.

    “However, it has been noted that, inadvertently, the late Lieutenant General I Attahiru was not immortalised in this manner. To correct this error, after due consultation with the top echelon of the Nigerian Army, the Akim Barracks that houses Headquarters 13 Brigade Calabar, which the late Lieutenant General Attahiru commanded, will, in the coming days, be named Ibrahim Attahiru Barracks,” said the COAS.

    Oluyede said the army considered Ikeja Cantonment most benefitting to immortalise Lagbaja because of the modest infrastructural developments he spearheaded as Commander 9Brigade, as well as major developmental projects he initiated in the cantonment as COAS.

    “Some of these include the extensive renovation of officers and soldiers’ accommodations, upgrade of the schools and medical centre facilities as well as restoration of the cantonment water treatment plant.

    “He was also key to resolving the intractable challenge of poor electricity supply to the Cantonment. Lieutenant General Lagbaja’s impactful intervention undoubtedly brought comfort and joy to the cantonment community.

    “It was, therefore, no surprise that the proposal to rename this cantonment after him was received with widespread jubilation and warm acceptance by the residents,” he said.

  • Lagbaja one of our best officers, says Ribadu

    Lagbaja one of our best officers, says Ribadu

    The National Security Adviser (NSA) Malam Nuhu Ribadu has described the late Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja one of the best military officers Nigeria has ever produced.

    He also described the late army chief as an incredible man, loyal, committed, trustworthy, compatriot and a good leader.

    Ribadu said this on Wednesday during a condolence visit to the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, and the Acting COAS, Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede.

    According to the NSA, Lt.-Gen. Lagbaja loved his soldiers, worked for the Armed Forces and Nigeria and also loved the military.

    Ribadu said: “I am here to condole the Armed Forces of Nigeria, the Chief of Defence Staff, the Chief of Army Staff, and the entire members of our Armed Forces, who have suffered a great loss.

    Read Also: Circular Road: Makinde raises payment compensation panel

    “We lost one of our best because Lt.-Gen. Lagbaja was an incredible man but that is what life is all about.

    “He has been called to a higher level and we will continue to pray for his family and those he left behind.

    “We will continue to be grateful to God for the life he led, for the service he gave, and the commitment he did for his country.

    “To our President, President Bola Tinubu, it is a very sad loss, a difficult one to feel, but we thank God for his life.”

    Ribadu was accompanied by the National Coordinator of the National Counter-terrorism Centre, Maj.-Gen. Adamu Laka and other top officials from the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA).

    He had meetings with the CDS and the Acting COAS and signed condolence registers at both Defence and Army Headquarters.

  • Lagbaja earned COAS appointment without political influence—Defence HQ

    Lagbaja earned COAS appointment without political influence—Defence HQ

    The Nigerian Army Headquarters on Tuesday paid a condolence visit to the hometown of the late Chief of Army Staff(COAS), Lt. General Taoreed Lagbaja. 

    The delegate, which consisted of seven Generals, was led by Kamar Ishola Yusuf. 

    They visited Osun Governor, Ademola Adeeke after which they proceeded to Ilobu, hometown of the late COAS, the headquarters of Irepodun local government area of Osun to visit the king, Oba Ashiru Olaniyan and the compound of the Lagbaja. 

    Speaking at the palace of Olobu, General Yusuf lamented Lagbaja was Nigeria’s star that dimmed too early. 

    He said: “Lt. General Lagbaja led from the front and was courageous. In every division he served, he left indelible achievements. They are there for everyone to see. This led to his appointment as the COAS. He merited the COAS without political influence.” 

    The delegate assured that all four community projects started by the deceased would be completed.

    Governor Ademola Adeleke and his deputy, Kola Adewusi led other State functionaries, including the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Kazeem Akinleye and other members of the State Executive Council to the palace.

    Read Also: Gas central to Nigeria’s economic recovery

    Speaking at Olobu’s palace, Adeleke extolled President Bola Tinubu for approval state burial  for Lagbaja, describing it as fitting. 

    He noted that his service to the fatherland would never be forgotten.

    According to Adeleke: “I thank Mr President for approving state burial for our late brother. We also appreciate the message from the army representative that ongoing community projects initiated by General Lagbaja at Ilobu, Ifon and Erin Osun would be completed. We will follow up on this.

    “Anytime we speak, the late General always called for peace among his people. His message even at death is that the people of Ilobu and Ifon should live in peace and unity. 

    “Let us honour the memory of our late brother and maintain peace. We cannot afford any bloodshed again. It is time to see each other as one and push for common development of our local government and state.”

    Oba Ashiru Olaniyan, Governor Adeleke pleaded with community leaders to ensure the sustenance of peace as a mark of honour for the transition of Lagbaja.

  • Taoreed Lagbaja (1968 – 2024)

    Taoreed Lagbaja (1968 – 2024)

    • He brought professionalism and compassion to bear in his calling

    His appointment as the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) in June 2023 had promised a reinvigorated war against agents of insecurity, especially Islamic terrorists, murderous separatists, bandits and kidnappers. He visibly made efforts to deal with the country’s troubling security challenges and had achieved some successes, including dispatching an impressive number of notorious bandits in the north.

     Lt. Gen. Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja’s death on November 5, after about 16 months in office, has serious implications for the efforts to tackle insecurity in the country. He was 56. 

    The immediate challenge facing the army following his death is to ensure that its fighters in conflict zones remain focused on their task. As army boss, he had made frequent visits to conflict zones to boost the morale of frontline troops. He also paid particular attention to the welfare of the troops, and emphasised discipline and professionalism.

    Under him, the army made a significant move to acquire attack helicopters to strengthen its potency. In June, two Bell UH-1H helicopters were reported to have arrived in the country, and 10 more were being expected.  He also introduced the Smart Soldier Initiative, which involves the use of high technology to enhance the army’s operations against agents of insecurity and help to protect frontline troops. This was aimed at further modernising the army.  

    Also, during his tenure, the army intensified operations against crude oil theft and pipeline vandalism in the Niger Delta, helping to recover considerable quantities of stolen crude oil and safeguarding the country’s oil infrastructure.

    More than 300 terrorist commanders were reported to have been eliminated by the army under him. However, according to the Armed Conflict Location and Event Data Project, a US-based nonprofit, about 1,600 people, including military personnel, were killed during his tenure.

    Importantly, in September, he offered notable suggestions on ending the country’s security crisis in the first strategic personality lecture of the Institute of Peace and Strategic Studies, University of Ibadan, which was delivered on his behalf by the General Officer Commanding 2 Division of the Nigerian Army, Maj. Gen. Obinna Onubogu. According to Lagbaja, “The twin problems of unemployment and poverty have given impetus to security challenges, as the unemployed and poor are susceptible to recruitment by criminals and violent non-state actors.”

    He said: “A whole-of-society approach must be implemented in Nigeria by leveraging the strength of every stakeholder to ensure a cohesive and coordinated response to threats. To achieve this, there must be enhanced communication, cooperation, and trust among the different sectors and efforts must be aligned with national interests and other security objectives.” He added: “The strategy can potentially address the root causes of insecurity, such as poverty, unemployment, and social injustice often exploited by adversaries.”

    Read Also: IGP orders police officers to wear black bands over Lagbaja’s death

    Born in Ilobu, in present-day Osun State, he attended the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), Kaduna, and was commissioned as a second lieutenant into the Nigerian Army Infantry Corps in 1992. He got a first degree in Geography from NDA in 2001. He also earned a master’s degree in Strategic Studies from the US Army War College. He was Director of Operations at the Army Headquarters, Department of Army Training and Operations, from January to December 2018. He was Commander of Headquarters 9 Brigade, Ikeja, Lagos State, and Headquarters 2 Brigade, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. Before his elevation to the COAS, he was General Officer Commanding Headquarters 82 Division from March 2021 to August 2022, and Headquarters 1 Division from August 2022 to June 2023.

    In separate posthumous tributes, President Bola Tinubu and Chief of Defence Staff Christopher Musa captured his service to the country. Tinubu said he “demonstrated exceptional leadership and commitment,” and “played pivotal roles in numerous internal security operations, including ‘Operation ZAKI’ in Benue State, ‘Lafiya Dole’ in Borno, ‘Udoka’ in Southeast Nigeria, and ‘Operation Forest Sanity’ across Kaduna and Niger states.” Musa extolled his “sterling performance, courage and steadfast commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s sovereignty.”

    The greatest tribute to him is for the armed forces to continue to pursue with a sense of purpose the defeat of the agents of insecurity across the country. 

  • Lagbaja a dogged, gallant, dedicated leader – Acting COAS

    Lagbaja a dogged, gallant, dedicated leader – Acting COAS

    The Acting Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-General Olufemi Oluyede, has described the late Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-General Taoreed Lagbaja, as a “dogged, gallant and extremely dedicated leader.”

    General Oluyede, in a statement by the army’s spokesman, Maj.-General Onyema Nwachukwu, on Wednesday, said Lagbaja “gave his all to the service of our dear nation,” which was evident in his dedication to duty and the legacies he has left behind.

    The statement reads: The Acting Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede has paid a condolence visit to Mrs Mariya Lagbaja and other family members of the late Lieutenant General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, Nigeria’s 23rd Chief of Army Staff who passed on Tuesday 5th November 2024 after a brief illness.

    “Gen Oluyede paid the condolence on Wednesday 6 November 2024, at the Flag Staff House, Niger Barracks Abuja, accompanied by Principal Staff Officers of the Army Headquarters, Corps Commanders, and General Officers Commanding of the Nigerian Army.

    “Paying tribute to the late COAS, Gen Oluyede extolled his gallantry, dedication, and legacies throughout his service years in the Nigerian Army and the Armed Forces of Nigeria in general.

    Read Also; FG to foster conducive environment for youth – Minister

    “In a succinct message penned in the condolence register opened in honour of the late COAS, the Acting COAS stated, “It is with a huge sense of loss, albeit responsibility that I, on behalf of the officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Army commiserate with Mrs Mariya Lagbaja, the children and the entire Lagbaja clan over the passing of our dogged, gallant and extremely dedicated leader Lieutenant General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja (Nigerian Army Medal) the Chief of Army Staff of the Nigerian Army. Lt Gen Lagbaja, without doubt, gave his all to the service of our dear nation.

    ”This was evident in his dedication to duty and the legacies he has left behind. We only take solace in the fact that we cannot in any way querry the Almighty. We surely owe him a whole lot. Rest in peace, our leader and hero. You will surely be missed. “

    Lagbaja was on June 19, 2023 appointed Chief of Army Staff by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and fully assumed command of the Nigerian Army as the 23rd COAS on June 23, 2023.

    A seasoned Infantry officer, Lagbaja, was commissioned in 1992 as a member of the 39 Regular Combatant Course of the prestigious Nigerian Defence Academy, Kaduna.

    He distinguished himself as a Special Forces Commander and a military leader per excellence who held several appointments in the course of his exemplary military career. Late General Lagbaja served as General Officer Commanding 82 and 1 Divisions of the Nigerian Army in Enugu and Kaduna, respectively. He also commanded 9 Brigade Ikeja and 2 Brigade Uyo as well as 72 Special Forces Battalion on two separate tours of duty.

  • Late Lagbaja’s hometown suspends anniversary indefinitely

    Late Lagbaja’s hometown suspends anniversary indefinitely

    Ilobu community, the hometown of the late Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. General Taoreed Lagbaja, the headquarters of Irepodun Local Government in Osun State, has suspended its yearly celebration. 

    The Nation recalled the National President of the Ilobu-Asake Development Union (IDU), Olufemi Salako, announced November 4-10 for the 32nd Ilobu day celebration. 

    The late COAS was billed to lead fundraising of N200m for developmental projects in the community with other illustrious sons of Ilobu, like former House of Representatives Deputy Speaker Lasun Yusuf. 

    Salako, when contacted, expressed shock over the death of Lagbaja. 

    He noted that his demise was devastating to the community adding “he died when his service and leadership are much needed for the development of our community, Osun State and Nigeria at large.

    Read Also: Onjeh mourns COAS Lagbaja

    “We take solace in the legacy of service, gallantry, diligence and commitment to Nigeria, he left behind.  

    “In lieu of the sad development, the National Executive of IDU has announced the immediate suspension of all ongoing activities marking the 2024 Ilobu Day Celebration, announcement of a new date for the event shall be made later. 

    “We call on Nigerians to remember the immediate family of Lt Gen. Lagbaja, Ilobu Community and the Nigeria Army in prayers as we mourn the transition of our son.“

  • BREAKING: Tinubu postpones FEC meeting over Lagbaja’s death

    BREAKING: Tinubu postpones FEC meeting over Lagbaja’s death

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has rescheduled the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting following the demise of the Chief of Army Staff, Lt General Taoreed Lagbaja.

    The President noted that a new date for the meeting will be announced later.

    This was disclosed in a statement by Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.

    He wrote: “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, has ordered rescheduling the Federal Executive Council meeting till another date to be announced.

    Read Also: BREAKING: COAS Lagbaja dies at 56

    “Initially scheduled for today, the council meeting was postponed in honour of Lt. General Taoreed Lagbaja, the Chief of Army Staff, who passed away on Tuesday night.

    “General Lagbaja served as the Chief of Army Staff from June 19, 2023, till his death on November 5, 2024.”

    Tinubu also ordered flags to be flown at half-staff nationwide for seven days in honour of the departed general.

  • FULL LIST: Chiefs of Army Staff who died in office

    FULL LIST: Chiefs of Army Staff who died in office

    The Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen Taoreed Lagbaja, is dead.

    This was announced in a statement by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga on X on Wednesday.

    Lagbaja, the 23rd Chief of Army Staff, becomes the third Chief of Army Staff to have died in office.

    Here are COAS who died in office

    1. Joseph Akahan (August 1967)

    Joseph Akahan, a 30-year-old Army Chief, was appointed shortly before the outbreak of the Nigerian Civil War in 1967. After visiting the frontline in Nsukka, he returned to his hometown in Gboko for a brief rest.

    As he headed back to Makurdi, the helicopter carrying him crashed, claiming his life with two pilots on board.

    2. Attahiru Ibrahim (May 21, 2021)

    Former COAS Attahiru Ibrahim died on the evening of May 21, 2021, while he was travelling on a Nigerian Air Force Beechcraft King Air 350 for an official visit to Kaduna to attend the Passing out Parade of 80RRI in Depot Nigerian Army on 22 May 2021.

    During the journey the plane crashed, killing Attahiru and all 10 other people on board.

    Read Also: 17 things to know about late COAS Lagbaja

    Lt. Gen. Ibrahim Attahiru was appointed in January 2021 to replace Tukur Buratai.

    He died just months into his tenure.

    3. Taoreed Lagbaja (November 5, 2024)

    Lagbaja was appointed Chief of Army Staff on June 19, 2023 by President Tinubu.

    Lagbaja held command positions in several military operations, including Operation HARMONY IV in the Bakassi Peninsula, the United Nations Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Operation ZAKI.

    He was also part of the Internal Security Operation in Benue, Operation LAFIYA DOLE, Operation MESA/UDO KA, and Internal Security Operation in the South East.

    Throughout his service, Lt. General Lagbaja demonstrated exceptional leadership and commitment, serving as a platoon commander in the 93 Battalion and the 72 Special Forces Battalion.

    An alumnus of the prestigious U.S. Army War College, he earned a Master’s degree in Strategic Studies, demonstrating his dedication to professional growth and excellence in military leadership.

    Lt. General Lagbaja is survived by his beloved wife, Mariya, and two children.

  • No appointment of acting Chief of Army Staff, says DHQ

    No appointment of acting Chief of Army Staff, says DHQ

    The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) said it has not appointed any senior officer as acting Chief of Army Staff (COAS).

    It said such an appointment doesn’t exist within the Armed Forces.

    The clarification came after reports in some online platforms and social media about the alleged demise of the COAS, Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja.

    The Nigerian Army authority clarified on Saturday that Lt.-Gen. Lagbaja was on leave and receiving medical check-ups abroad.

     It explained that before the COAS proceeded on leave, necessary protocols were put in place for the Chief of Policy and Plans (Army), Major General Abdulsalami Bagudu Ibrahim, to act on his behalf, stating there was no leadership vacuum as speculated in some quarters.

    Read Also: Army debunks COAS Lagbaja’s death rumour

    The DHQ in a statement by the Director Defence Information, Brig-Gen. Tukur Gusau, on Monday, explained that the Chief of Policy and Plans is only “providing routine briefs to the COAS in accordance with standard military procedures,” and not the acting COAS, adding that such appointment doesn’t exit in the military.  

    The statement reads: “The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) wishes to clarify that it has not announced the appointment of any senior officer as the acting Chief of Army Staff (COAS), contrary to speculation by certain media outlets. For the record, no such appointment exists within the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN).

    “The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, is currently on a well-deserved rest as part of his 2024 annual leave. The Armed Forces of Nigeria is professionally managed and all the Service Chiefs are performing their duties as stipulated in the Constitution of the FGN. Major General Abdulsalam Bagudu Ibrahim, the Chief of Policy and Plans, is providing routine briefs to the COAS in accordance with standard military procedures.

    “The DHQ urges individuals spreading unfounded rumours to desist from doing so immediately. The COAS is hale and hearty and will soon resume normal duties at the end of his leave.  

    “Media organisations are advised to verify information with the appropriate authorities before releasing fake news to the public. The CDS had only spoken with the COAS a few minutes ago.

    “Additionally, those advocating for a military takeover, as seen in a viral video, should be aware that such actions are treasonable under the Constitution.”

    The DHQ assured that the military was committed to the preservation and advancement of our democracy, and loyal to President and Commander-in-Chief, Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    It said: “The military remains focused on achieving its statutory responsibilities of protecting the nation’s integrity.

    “To this end, the Armed Forces of Nigeria and relevant security agencies have been mandated to take necessary action against any individual or group advocating for unconstitutional changes in the country.”