Reports reaching SaharaReporters reveal that the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, is experiencing health challenges, causing growing speculation about his future in the role. Lagbaja was appointed by President Bola Tinubu in June 2023, becoming the 27th COAS after succeeding Faruk Yahaya.
The Chief of Army Staff occupies a key position in Nigeria’s military structure, reporting to the Chief of Defence Staff, who is accountable to the Minister of Defence and, ultimately, the President. Lagbaja’s absence has reportedly unsettled the military, as sources confirm that he was flown abroad by his family for medical treatment.
Multiple insiders have described his illness as “strange” and serious enough to prevent him from attending any military functions in the last three weeks. “He is seriously sick and was taken abroad for treatment. His family arranged for his evacuation. For now, no one is in charge, and some Major Generals are taking advantage of the situation,” one source disclosed.
A military officer expressed concerns about the leadership vacuum. “The COAS is a key figure, and without him, things feel out of place. I hope he recovers soon. I’ve known him since our days in Makurdi, Benue State, when we were both junior officers,” the officer added.
Concerns over Lagbaja’s absence were also raised during Nigeria’s Independence Day celebrations on October 1, where he was notably missing from the parade in Abuja. According to a Major, “It’s unusual for him to miss such an important event. When I inquired, I was told he was out of the country.”
In addition to this, the 2024 promotion list of soldiers, completed weeks ago, remains unsigned due to Lagbaja’s absence. The Chief of Administration, according to sources, cannot authorize the list, fearing it would reveal the severity of the situation. “Soldiers awaiting promotion are already grumbling about the delay,” a source confirmed.
Sources close to the situation revealed on Friday that Lagbaja’s health has further declined, leaving him bedridden and unable to communicate properly. “He’s lost his ability to hear, and we are praying for his quick recovery,” one insider said.
The illness has triggered intense lobbying within the military, as top-ranking officers vie for the prestigious position of Chief of Army Staff. These officers, including Major Generals, have begun lobbying influential figures, such as politicians, traditional rulers, and senior military officials, hoping to position themselves as Lagbaja’s potential successor.
Lagbaja’s career has been distinguished, with stints as the General Officer Commanding at both Headquarters 82 Division and Headquarters 1 Division. However, if his health does not improve, it is likely that his replacement will face considerable challenges leading the Nigerian Army.
“Given the severity of his condition, no President would want to keep him in the role, even if he is discharged. So the lobbying has already started, particularly among officers from courses 40 and 41,” another source revealed.
Earlier, Army spokesman Major General Onyema Nwachukwu stated that Lagbaja was simply on leave and entitled to some rest after years of hard work. “The COAS has worked tirelessly for the country. If he takes a few weeks for vacation, does it mean he is sick?” Nwachukwu questioned. He further emphasized that military officers deserve occasional breaks, adding, “We make sacrifices for the country, and even soldiers need time to rest or get medical checkups.”
In a related development, human rights lawyer Deji Adeyanju released a statement wishing Lagbaja a speedy recovery. “I have learned that Lt. Gen. Lagbaja is dealing with a health issue. Anyone can fall sick, and I call for empathy toward him and his family. The Nigerian Army should ensure a smooth transition of duties to maintain operational effectiveness while he recovers,” Adeyanju stated.
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