A major restructuring in the Nigerian Army is expected following the recent death of the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja. Sources have indicated that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is set to appoint newly promoted Lieutenant General Oluyede as the substantive Chief of Army Staff. This appointment will, however, require Senate confirmation, after which a significant reshuffle within the army’s top hierarchy is anticipated.
Military insiders suggest that some of Oluyede's colleagues, notably from the 39th Regular Course, may be redeployed to the Defence Headquarters, while others may be assigned to various military training institutions. According to a senior military officer, these moves are designed to preserve experienced leadership within the ranks without mandating retirements for those still active in service. Unlike the 38th Regular Course, whose members have largely retired, the 39th Course remains active, and its members are expected to take on new roles rather than face forced retirements.
In the wake of Lt.-Gen. Lagbaja’s passing, prominent Nigerians including President Tinubu, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Speaker of the House of Representatives Abbas Tajudeen, and several state governors have expressed profound sorrow. President Tinubu, to honor the late Chief of Army Staff, postponed the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting that was scheduled for Wednesday. Vice President Kashim Shettima announced the president's decision during the cabinet session, where he called for a minute of silence in Lagbaja’s memory.
The presidency confirmed that Lagbaja passed away on Tuesday night in Lagos after a brief illness, leaving behind his wife, Mariya, and their two children. In his condolence message, President Tinubu paid tribute to Lagbaja’s dedication, and his administration directed that national flags be flown at half-mast for seven days as a mark of respect.
Lt.-Gen. Oluyede, who recently assumed the role of acting Chief of Army Staff, paid his respects to his predecessor, acknowledging the depth of loss felt by the Nigerian Army. Describing Lagbaja as a selfless leader, Oluyede commended his unwavering dedication to tackling Nigeria's security challenges. The newly appointed Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, echoed these sentiments, describing Lagbaja as a courageous officer whose tenure left an indelible mark on the nation's security efforts.
Tributes poured in from across the country. Senate President Akpabio called Lagbaja’s death a profound loss to Nigeria, noting his extensive contributions to national security. Senate Deputy President Barau I. Jibrin praised Lagbaja's courage and dedication, stating his appointment in June 2023 reflected the government’s trust in his leadership.
Speaker of the House Abbas Tajudeen and Deputy Speaker Benjamin Okezie Kalu joined in mourning, emphasizing the significance of Lagbaja’s contributions. The Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) also extended condolences, with Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq lauding Lagbaja’s sacrifices. Similarly, the Northern States Governors’ Forum (NSGF), represented by Gombe State Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, expressed its sympathy.
Other notable figures, including former President Muhammadu Buhari, former Senate President David Mark, and Minister of Defence Muhammad Badaru, shared their condolences, underscoring Lagbaja’s legacy. Buhari, reflecting on Lagbaja’s career, highlighted his bravery in military operations across regions, from Operation Zaki in Benue to Lafiya Dole in Borno and Udoka in the Southeast.
Lagbaja’s tenure was marked by steadfast commitment to national security, with roles spanning from platoon commander in the 93 Battalion to key positions in Special Forces battalions. His expertise was further enhanced by training at the U.S. Army War College, where he earned a Master’s degree in Strategic Studies.
The death of Lt.-Gen. Lagbaja has left a significant void in Nigeria’s military leadership, but the anticipated redeployment of senior officers and the impending appointment of Lt.-Gen. Oluyede as Chief of Army Staff offer a path forward.
