Nigeria military mourns CoAS Lagbaja

The Nigerian Armed Forces have been thrown into mourning following the passing of Taoreed Lagbaja, the Chief of Army Staff (CoAS), who died on Tuesday after a brief illness.

The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, expressed deep sorrow over the loss, extending condolences to President Bola Tinubu, Lagbaja’s family, and all Nigerians.

In a statement on Wednesday, General Musa highlighted the extraordinary dedication and loyalty that defined Lagbaja’s career.

He said, known as a courageous, hardworking, and reliable leader, Lagbaja’s service went beyond the military, deeply impacting the nation’s security landscape.

“His passing is a tremendous loss not only to his family, the Army, and the Armed Forces of Nigeria but also to the entire nation and humanity,” Musa stated.

Lagbaja, who was appointed Chief of Army Staff on June 19, 2023, made his mark through initiatives aimed at strengthening national security.

His tenure, according to the statement, was marked by the establishment of the Nigerian Army Aviation Wing, a project aimed at bolstering the military’s aerial capabilities.

“Lagbaja also played instrumental roles in several high-profile operations, including forest sanitation in Kaduna and Niger States, Lafiya Dole, Zaman Lafiya, and Hadin Kai in Borno, Zaki in Benue, and Udoka in the Southeast.

“Each operation was a testament to his commitment to ensuring a safer Nigeria, and he became a key figure in combating insecurity across multiple regions,” Musa stated.

Reflecting on Lagbaja’s impact, Musa paid tribute to his 16-month tenure, noting that his contributions to the Nigerian Army would leave a lasting legacy.

He also offered prayers for strength and comfort for Lagbaja’s widow, Maria Lagbaja, and his family in their time of grief.

“The void left by Lagbaja’s invaluable service will be deeply felt by the Armed Forces of Nigeria and the nation as a whole, particularly in these challenging times for national security.

“As the Armed Forces and Nigerians come to terms with this loss, Lagbaja’s achievements and dedication to safeguarding Nigeria will be remembered as a defining chapter in the nation’s military history,” he said.