Biography: Meet Nigeria's New Army Chief, Abiodun Lagbaja

Major General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja is the newly appointed Chief of Army Staff in Nigeria. Get to know the man behind the rank in this engaging and exclusive biography.

Born in Ilobu, Irepodun Local Government Area, Osun State on February 28, 1968, Major General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja has risen to the pinnacle of military leadership, taking on the prestigious role of Nigeria's Chief of Army Staff. Appointed by President Bola Tinubu, Major General Lagbaja succeeds Lt-Gen Faruk Yahaya, who was selected by former President Muhammadu Buhari in 2021.

Major General Lagbaja's educational journey began at the Local Authority Teachers College Demonstration School in Osogbo, where he attended from 1973 to 1979. He then pursued his studies at St Charles Grammar School, Osogbo, from 1979 to 1984. Furthering his education, he enrolled at The Polytechnic, Ibadan, from 1984 to 1986, earning his West African School Certificate (Advanced Level).

His commitment to serving his country led him to join the Nigerian Defence Academy in September 1987, as a member of the 39th Regular Course. On September 19, 1992, he was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant into the Nigerian Army Infantry Corps.

Throughout his illustrious career, Major General Lagbaja has demonstrated exceptional leadership and dedication. He has completed various specialized courses and taken up key command, staff, and instructional roles, showcasing his expertise and professionalism.

Some of the notable courses attended by Major General Lagbaja include the Company Amphibious Operations Course, Young Officers' Course (Infantry), Basic Airborne Course, Advanced Airborne Course, Amphibious Staff Operations Course, Company Commanders' Course, and Battalion Commanders' Course, among others.

He has also held significant appointments, such as Platoon Commander in 93 Battalion and 72 Special Forces Battalion, Instructor at the Nigerian Defence Academy, Staff Officer in charge of peacekeeping at Army Headquarters Department of Army Training and Operations, and Deputy Chief of Staff G1 (Administration) at Headquarters 81 Division.

Moreover, Major General Lagbaja has served as Commanding Officer of 72 Special Forces Battalion Makurdi, Chief of Staff at Headquarters 8 Task Force Division Monguno, Acting Director of Operations at Army Headquarters Department of Army Training and Operations, and Commander of Headquarters 9 Brigade in Ikeja, Lagos State, and Headquarters 2 Brigade in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

His contributions extended to roles as Director of Force Generation at Army Headquarters Department of Army Training and Operations, General Officer Commanding at Headquarters 82 Division, and currently, as General Officer Commanding at Headquarters 1 Division.

Major General Lagbaja's professional growth is marked by a series of well-deserved promotions, starting with Second Lieutenant in September 1987, followed by Lieutenant, Captain, Major, Lieutenant Colonel, Colonel, Brigadier General, and Major General.

His remarkable service has garnered numerous honors and awards, including the Forces Service Star, Meritorious Service Star, Distinguished Service Star, Passed Staff Course (+), Fellows United States Army War College, Command Medal, Field Command Medal, Field Command Medal of Honor, General Operations Medal, Operation Harmony Medal, United Nations Peacekeeping Operation Medal, Operation LAFIYA DOLE Medal, and more.

Beyond his military responsibilities, Major General Lagbaja leads a fulfilling personal life. He is happily married to Mrs. Mariya Abiodun-Lagbaja, and their union has been blessed with two children. In his leisure time, he finds solace in watching documentaries and reading biographies, constantly expanding his knowledge and horizons.

Major General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja's appointment as Nigeria's Chief of Army Staff represents a culmination of a distinguished career marked by unwavering dedication, extensive training, and exemplary leadership. Through his remarkable journey, he continues to make significant contributions to the defense and security of Nigeria.