Lieutenant General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja is a prominent Nigerian military officer who currently serves as Nigeria’s Chief of Army Staff.
Appointed by President Bola Tinubu in 2023, Lagbaja’s illustrious career spans over three decades, during which he has risen through the ranks to become one of Nigeria’s most respected military leaders.
This article looks into the life, career, and personal details of this distinguished army officer.
Biography
Lieutenant General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja was born on February 28, 1968, in Ilobu, a town in Irepodun, present-day Osun State, Nigeria.
He spent his formative years in Osogbo, where he received his early education at the prestigious St Charles Grammar School and Local Authority Teachers College.
These institutions laid the foundation for his future academic and military pursuits.
In 1987, Lagbaja’s military journey began when he was admitted into the Nigerian Defence Academy as a member of the 39th Regular Course.
His dedication and hard work paid off, and on September 19, 1992, he was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the Nigerian Infantry Corps. This marked the beginning of a remarkable career in the Nigerian Army.
From 1992 to 1995, Lagbaja served as a platoon commander of the 93 Battalion, gaining valuable experience in leadership and military operations.
He then moved on to the 72 Special Forces Battalion, where he continued to serve as a platoon commander from 1995 to 2001.
These early assignments helped shape his tactical and strategic thinking, preparing him for future leadership roles.
Lagbaja’s commitment to education is evident in his academic pursuits. In 2001, he obtained a Bachelor’s degree in Geography from the Nigerian Defence Academy, further enhancing his knowledge and skills.
Later in his career, he pursued advanced studies at the US Army War College, earning a Master’s degree in Strategic Studies.
This combination of military experience and academic knowledge has been instrumental in his rise through the ranks.
Throughout his career, Lagbaja has held several key positions within the Nigerian Army.
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He served as Commander of Headquarters 9 Brigade in Ikeja, Lagos State, and Headquarters 2 Brigade in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. These roles allowed him to demonstrate his leadership abilities and contribute to Nigeria’s national security.
Prior to his appointment as Chief of Army Staff, Lagbaja served as General Officer Commanding Headquarters 82 Division from March 2021 to August 2022, and then as General Officer Commanding Headquarters 1 Division from August 2022 to June 2023.
These high-level positions showcased his strategic thinking and operational expertise.
Lagbaja’s commitment to professional development is evident in his participation in various military courses. In 2008, he attended the Military Observers Course on Peacekeeping Wing at the Nigerian Army School of Infantry in Jaji.
He also completed the ECOWAS Standby Force Battalion Command Post Course at the Peacekeeping Centre in Bamako, Mali, in 2010. These courses have enhanced his skills in peacekeeping operations and regional military cooperation.
Throughout his impressive career, Lagbaja has steadily climbed the ranks of the Nigerian Army.
Starting as a second lieutenant, he has progressed through various officer grades, culminating in his promotion to lieutenant general in July 2023.
This promotion coincided with his appointment as Nigeria’s Chief of Army Staff, a testament to his leadership abilities and the trust placed in him by the nation’s leadership.
Religion
Lieutenant General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja is a Muslim.
His faith has been an important aspect of his personal life throughout his military career.
Wife
Lagbaja is married to Mariya Abiodun-Lagbaja.
As the wife of Nigeria’s Chief of Army Staff, she plays a supportive role in her husband’s career while maintaining a relatively low public profile.
Net Worth
While exact figures are difficult to determine, estimates place Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja’s net worth at approximately $400,000.
It’s important to note that this figure is an estimate and may not reflect his true financial status.
As a high-ranking military officer, Lagbaja’s wealth is likely derived from his years of service in the Nigerian Army and any investments he may have made throughout his career.
Age
Born on February 28, 1968, Lieutenant General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja is currently 56 years old as of 2024.
In conclusion,
Lieutenant General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja’s biography showcases a dedicated military professional who has risen through the ranks to become Nigeria’s Chief of Army Staff.
His educational background, diverse military experiences, and leadership roles have prepared him for this crucial position.
As he continues to serve his country, Lagbaja’s impact on Nigeria’s military and national security will undoubtedly be significant.