Army Chief Pays Condolence Visit to Lagbaja's Widow [PHOTOS]

Army Chief Mourns with Lagbaja's Family

“It is with a huge sense of loss, albeit responsibility that I, on behalf of the officers and soldiers of the Nigerian..."

Nigerian Army Chief visits Lagbaja's family to offer condolences.

Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, the Acting Chief of Army Staff, recently paid a condolence visit to Mariya Lagbaja, the widow of the late Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, who sadly passed away on November 5, 2024, at the age of 56, due to a brief illness in Lagos.

The late Lieutenant General Lagbaja left an indelible mark with his exceptional service, and his legacy will undoubtedly be remembered. Notably, Oluyede replaced Lagbaja as the Chief of Army Staff after President Bola Tinubu appointed him as Acting Chief of Army Staff due to Lagbaja's medical leave. Oluyede brings extensive experience and leadership expertise to his new role, having participated in key military operations and held various command positions throughout his illustrious career.

This heartfelt gesture by Oluyede demonstrates the deep respect and camaraderie within the Nigerian Army. It's a testament to the strong bonds formed among military personnel and their families.

Oluyede led a delegation of top military officials to pay condolences to the family of the late General Lagbaja at the Flag Staff House, Niger Barracks, Abuja. This heartfelt visit took place just a day after Lagbaja's passing and included Principal Staff Officers from the Army Headquarters, Corps Commanders, and General Officers Commanding of the Nigerian Army.

During the visit, Oluyede showered praise on the late general, acknowledging his remarkable courage, unwavering dedication, and lasting impact on the Nigerian Army and the broader Armed Forces. This tribute was also shared in a statement released by Major General Onyema Nwachukwu, Director Army Public Relations, on November 6.

Here's a breakdown of the key points from Oluyede's visit:

Delegation Members: Principal Staff Officers, Corps Commanders, and General Officers Commanding of the Nigerian Army

Visit Location: Flag Staff House, Niger Barracks, Abuja

Tribute: Oluyede praised Lagbaja's courage, dedication, and lasting contributions

Statement Release: November 6, by Major General Onyema Nwachukwu, Director Army Public Relations

“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,” he said.

Oluyede highlighted Lagbaja's unwavering commitment to serving the nation, showcasing his dedication through his tireless work and lasting impact. Lagbaja's selflessness and devotion to duty have left an indelible mark, inspiring others with his remarkable legacy.

Lagbaja's remarkable service is a testament to his character, demonstrating the values of courage, dedication, and perseverance. His leadership and contributions have created a lasting impact, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to inspire and motivate others. Oluyede's tribute underscores the significance of Lagbaja's commitment, honoring his memory and celebrating his achievements.

"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," he noted.

President Bola Tinubu confirmed the passing of Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, the Chief of Army Staff, who died on November 5, 2024, at the age of 56, after a brief illness in Lagos. Born on February 28, 1968, Lagbaja had a distinguished military career spanning over three decades. He joined the Nigerian Defence Academy in 1987 and was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the Nigerian Infantry Corps on September 19, 1992, as part of the 39th Regular Course.

Lagbaja's remarkable service earned him the position of Chief of Army Staff, a role he held for one year and four months after his appointment by President Tinubu in June 2023. During his tenure, he played a crucial role in the fight against insurgency in the Northeast as the Theatre Commander of Operation Lafiya Dole. His leadership and expertise were instrumental in routing terrorists and ensuring the security of the nation.

Highlights of Lagbaja's Career:

Joined Nigerian Defence Academy: 1987

Commissioned as Second Lieutenant: September 19, 1992

Appointed Chief of Army Staff: June 2023

Theatre Commander of Operation Lafiya Dole: Led the fight against insurgency in the Northeast

Multinational Joint Task Force (MJTF): Served as a leading Commander of troops from countries in the Lake Chad Basin

Lagbaja's dedication and commitment to the nation have been recognized and celebrated. Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, described his death as a "“monumental loss” to the nation, praising his exploits in the fight against insurgency.

Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja had a distinguished military career, serving in various capacities including as platoon commander in the 93 Battalion and the 72 Special Forces Battalion. His leadership expertise and strategic thinking were instrumental in several internal security operations, such as:

Operation ZAKI: Benue State

Operation Lafiya Dole: Borno State

Operation Udoka: Southeast Nigeria

Operation Forest Sanity: Kaduna and Niger States

Lagbaja's commitment to advancing his professional skills and leadership in the military was evident in his academic pursuits. As an alumnus of the esteemed U.S. Army War College, he earned a Master's degree in Strategic Studies. This academic achievement underscores his dedication to excellence and his ability to navigate complex security challenges.

On a personal note, Lagbaja is survived by his loving wife, Mariya, and their two children. His legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire and motivate others in the military and beyond.

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