Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja Biography: Who Is Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja ?

Lieutenant General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja was a distinguished officer in the Nigerian Army who served as the Chief of Army Staff of Nigeria from June 2023 until his death in November 2024. Known for his leadership and strategic expertise, Lagbaja dedicated his life to serving Nigeria through various military capacities.

This article explores his life journey, detailing his early years, education, illustrious military career, family life, and enduring legacy.

Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja Wiki Profile

Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja Age and Early Life

Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja was born on 28 February 1968 in Ilobu, a town in the Irepodun area of present-day Osun State, Nigeria. Raised in Osogbo, Lagbaja attended St. Charles Grammar School and the Local Authority Teachers College. Growing up, he developed a passion for service and discipline, which would later guide him into a lifelong career in the Nigerian military.

Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja Education

Lagbaja’s formal education journey continued at the Nigerian Defence Academy, where he joined as part of the 39th Regular Course in 1987. He was commissioned as a second lieutenant on 19 September 1992 and joined the Nigerian Infantry Corps. His commitment to academic and professional excellence led him to complete a Bachelor’s degree in Geography from the Nigerian Defence Academy in 2001.

To enhance his strategic and tactical expertise, Lagbaja pursued further education at the U.S. Army War College, where he earned a Master’s degree in Strategic Studies. Throughout his military career, he also attended specialized courses, such as the Military Observers Course on Peacekeeping Wing at the Nigerian Army School of Infantry in 2008 and the ECOWAS Standby Force Battalion Command Post Course in Bamako, Mali, in 2010.

Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja State of Origin

Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja hailed from Ilobu in Irepodun, located in Osun State, Nigeria. His Yoruba heritage and deep connection to his state played a significant role in shaping his values and principles.

Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja Military Career and Achievements

Lagbaja’s military career spanned over three decades, during which he held several critical positions and commands. His journey began as a platoon commander in the Nigerian Infantry Corps, where he served in various battalions:

1. 93 Battalion (1992-1995): Served as a platoon commander.
2. 72 Special Forces Battalion (1995-2001): Led troops in specialized operations.

After completing his bachelor’s degree, Lagbaja served as an instructor at the Nigerian Defence Academy from 2001 to 2004. He then held various high-ranking positions, including:

• Grade 2 Staff Officer for Peacekeeping at the Army Headquarters Department of Training and Operations.
• Directing Staff at the Armed Forces Command and Staff College, Jaji (2006-2009).
• Deputy Chief of Staff G1 at Headquarters 81 Division (2009).
• Commanding Officer of the 72 Special Forces Battalion in Makurdi (2012-2013, 2014-2015).
• Chief of Staff at Headquarters 8 Task Force Division in Monguno (2016).

In January 2018, Lagbaja was appointed Director of Operations at the Army Headquarters Department of Training and Operations. His career continued to ascend, leading him to serve as a commander in several divisions:

• Commander of Headquarters 9 Brigade in Ikeja, Lagos State.
• Commander of Headquarters 2 Brigade in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.
• General Officer Commanding Headquarters 82 Division from March 2021 to August 2022.
• General Officer Commanding Headquarters 1 Division from August 2022 to June 2023.

Lagbaja’s extensive experience in both leadership and operational roles culminated in his appointment as Chief of Army Staff on 19 June 2023 by President Bola Tinubu. In July 2023, he was promoted to lieutenant general.

Military Operations

Throughout his career, Lagbaja participated in numerous national and international operations, including:

• Operation HARMONY IV in Bakassi Peninsula.
• United Nations Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (MONUC).
• Operation ZAKI in Benue State.
• Operation Lafiya Dole targeting insurgents.
• Operation MESA/Operation UDO KA (2021-2022) for internal security in Southeast Nigeria.
• Operation Forest Sanity (2022-2023) for counter-insurgency in Kaduna and Niger states.

Lagbaja’s involvement in these operations demonstrated his commitment to national and international security, making significant contributions to peacekeeping and stability efforts.

Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja Family, Relationships, and Children

Taoreed Lagbaja was married to Mariya Abiodun-Lagbaja. The couple shared a strong bond and was blessed with three children. Despite the demands of his military career, Lagbaja was known to be a family-oriented man who cherished his role as a husband and father.

Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja Death and Legacy

Lieutenant General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja passed away on 5 November 2024 in Lagos, Nigeria, after a prolonged illness. His absence from the public eye since September had sparked concerns, leading to his replacement by Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede in an acting capacity a week before his death.

Lagbaja’s legacy in the Nigerian Army and his impact on national security will be remembered for years to come. His dedication to service, combined with his strategic expertise, has left a lasting influence on the Nigerian military and those he mentored throughout his career.

Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja Net Worth

At the time of his passing, Taoreed Lagbaja’s net worth was estimated to be around $100,000, accumulated from his long-standing military career and associated benefits. His contributions to the Nigerian Army were not only in service but also in raising the standard of operations and leadership within the force.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. When was Taoreed Lagbaja appointed Chief of Army Staff?
He was appointed as the Chief of Army Staff on 19 June 2023 by President Bola Tinubu.

2. What is Taoreed Lagbaja’s educational background?
Lagbaja held a Bachelor’s degree in Geography from the Nigerian Defence Academy and a Master’s degree in Strategic Studies from the U.S. Army War College.

3. Did Taoreed Lagbaja serve in international missions?
Yes, he participated in international peacekeeping operations, including the United Nations Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

4. How many children did Taoreed Lagbaja have?
He is survived by his wife, Mariya Abiodun-Lagbaja, and their three children.

Conclusion

Lieutenant General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja’s life exemplified courage, commitment, and service to Nigeria. His journey from a young man in Osun State to the Chief of Army Staff serves as an inspiration to those who aspire to lead with integrity and dedication. Lagbaja’s legacy as a patriot, leader, and family man will continue to inspire future generations, making him a respected figure in Nigeria’s history.