Tinubu Mourns Lagbaja, Directs That National Flag Be Flown Half-Mast

President Bola Tinubu has expressed regret following the death of the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, after a brief illness.

The late COAS died at the age of 56 years.

In a Wednesday statement through the Director, Information & Public Relations, Segun Imohiosen for the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, the President has directed that National Flags be flown at half mast throughout the country for seven days in honour of the departed Army Chief.

He appreciated profoundly the services of the departed to the nation and wished the family the fortitude to bear the great loss.

Tinubu had earlier announced the passing of the Chief of Army Staff.

Born on February 28, 1968, Lagbaja served as the Chief of Army Staff for one year and four months following his appointment to the position by President Tinubu in June 2023.

His military career began when he enrolled in the Nigerian Defence Academy in 1987. On September 19, 1992, he was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the Nigerian Infantry Corps as a member of the 39th Regular Course.

Lt. General Lagbaja also served as a platoon commander in the 93 Battalion and the 72 Special Forces Battalion.

He 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.

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 their two children.