The Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, has passed away. His death was confirmed by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, in a statement released on Wednesday.

According to the announcement, titled "Announcement of the Passing of Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja," the army chief passed away on Tuesday night in Lagos following a prolonged illness.

"President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, regrets to announce the passing of Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, Chief of the Army Staff, at age 56," the statement read.

President Tinubu extended his condolences to Lagbaja's family and the Nigerian Armed Forces, honoring the general’s contributions to the nation and wishing him eternal peace.

Lt. General Lagbaja was appointed as Chief of Army Staff by President Tinubu on June 19, 2023. Throughout his career, he showed exemplary leadership and dedication, holding various roles, including platoon commander in the 93 Battalion and the 72 Special Forces Battalion.

His contributions were instrumental in several internal security operations, such as 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 U.S. Army War College, Lagbaja is survived by his wife, Mariya, and their two children.

With Lagbaja confirmed as indisposed for several weeks, President Tinubu appointed Olufemi Oluyede as the acting Chief of Army Staff. On Tuesday, Tinubu officially decorated Oluyede as Lieutenant General, remarking, “It is both an honor and a privilege to decorate you today.

This recognition reflects your commitment and service to the Nigerian military, which speaks volumes through your exemplary record. We recognize all that you have been doing to ensure the country is safe and stable.”