1. Major General Joseph Akahan (August 1967)
Joseph Akahan was a 30-year-old Army Chief appointed just before the Nigerian Civil War erupted in 1967. After visiting the frontline in Nsukka, he returned to his hometown of Gboko for a short rest. However, on his way back to Makurdi, tragedy struck when the helicopter carrying him and two pilots crashed, leading to his untimely death.
2. Lieutenant General Ibrahim Attahiru (May 21, 2021)
Lt. Gen. Ibrahim Attahiru met a tragic end on May 21, 2021. He was on a Nigerian Air Force Beechcraft King Air 350, en route to Kaduna for an official visit to attend the Passing Out Parade of the 80RRI in Depot Nigerian Army the following day. Unfortunately, the plane crashed mid-journey, claiming the lives of Attahiru and 10 others on board. Attahiru had been appointed Chief of Army Staff in January 2021, replacing Tukur Buratai, and had served just a few months in office.
3. Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja (November 5, 2024)
Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja was appointed Chief of Army Staff on June 19, 2023, by President Bola Tinubu. Throughout his distinguished career, he held command positions in several significant operations, including Operation HARMONY IV in the Bakassi Peninsula, the United Nations Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Operation ZAKI. His leadership was further demonstrated in Internal Security Operations in Benue, Operation LAFIYA DOLE, Operation MESA/UDO KA, and in the South East region.
An alumnus of the U.S. Army War College, Lagbaja held a Master’s degree in Strategic Studies, underlining his commitment to military excellence. He is survived by his wife, Mariya, and two children.
