Tinubu
Lagbaja: Tinubu shifts FEC meeting, orders Nigeria’s flag to be flown at half mast
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has shifted the Federal Executive Council meeting till another date to be announced over the death of Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Taoreed Lagbaja.
Initially scheduled for today, Wednesday, a statement by President’s spokesman, Bayo Onsnuga, confirmed that 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.
President Tinubu also ordered flags to be flown at half-staff nationwide for seven days in honour of the departed general.
Earlier, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had expressed deep sadness over the death of Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-General Taoreed Lagbaja, wishing him eternal peace and honours for his significant contributions to the nation.
A statement by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President (Information and Strategy) said Tinubu regrets to announce the passing of Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, Chief of the Army Staff, at age 56.
Lagbaja passed away on Tuesday night in Lagos after a period of illness.
Born on February 28, 1968, Lt. General Lagbaja was appointed Chief of Army Staff on June 19, 2023, by President Tinubu.
His distinguished 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.
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.
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.
President Tinubu expresses his heartfelt condolences to the family and the Nigerian Armed Forces during this difficult time. He wishes Lt. General Lagbaja eternal peace and honours his significant contributions to the nation.
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