The Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, confirmed that Lt. General Lagbaja, born on February 28, 1968, was appointed Chief of Army Staff on June 19, 2023. His distinguished career began in 1987 with his enrollment at the Nigerian Defence Academy, where he was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the Nigerian Infantry Corps in 1992.
Lt. General Lagbaja’s career was marked by dedication, bravery, and leadership, serving in prominent roles within the 93 Battalion and 72 Special Forces Battalion. He played an instrumental role in numerous security operations, including Operation ZAKI in Benue, Lafiya Dole in Borno, Udoka in the Southeast, and Forest Sanity in Kaduna and Niger States.
A graduate of the U.S. Army War College with a Master’s degree in Strategic Studies, Lt. General Lagbaja exemplified a commitment to professional excellence and personal development throughout his service.
He is survived by his wife, Mariya, and their two children. President Tinubu extended his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and the Nigerian Armed Forces, paying tribute to Lt. General Lagbaja’s legacy of unwavering service to the nation.
