1. Major General Joseph Akahan (August 1967)
In August 1967, Major General Joseph Akahan, then just 30 years old, met an untimely end while serving as Nigeria’s Chief of Army Staff. Appointed amid the early days of the Nigerian Civil War, Akahan was known for his dedication and commitment to duty. After a visit to the frontline in Nsukka, he returned briefly to his hometown of Gboko to rest. However, as he was en route back to Makurdi, tragedy struck. The helicopter carrying him and two pilots crashed under mysterious circumstances, cutting short the career of this promising military leader. His death marked a significant loss for the Nigerian Army during one of its most turbulent periods.
2. Lieutenant General Ibrahim Attahiru (May 21, 2021)
Lieutenant General Ibrahim Attahiru’s tenure as Chief of Army Staff was tragically brief, coming to an abrupt end on May 21, 2021. Appointed in January 2021 as a successor to Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai, Attahiru’s leadership was highly anticipated as he sought to address various security challenges in Nigeria. On that fateful day, Attahiru was aboard 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 at Depot Nigerian Army. Sadly, the plane crashed en route, claiming the lives of Attahiru and 10 other officers onboard. His sudden death shocked the nation and left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s military history.
3. Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja (November 5, 2024)
Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, who was appointed Chief of Army Staff by President Bola Tinubu on June 19, 2023, passed away in office on November 5, 2024. Throughout his remarkable military career, Lagbaja demonstrated exceptional leadership and bravery. He commanded major operations, including Operation HARMONY IV in the Bakassi Peninsula, the United Nations Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo, and key internal security missions such as Operation LAFIYA DOLE in the North-East, Operation MESA/UDO KA, and deployments in the South East. An alumnus of the U.S. Army War College with a Master’s degree in Strategic Studies, Lagbaja was deeply committed to military excellence and left behind a legacy of dedication to national service. He is survived by his wife, Mariya, and their two children. His passing is a somber reminder of the sacrifices borne by Nigeria’s military leaders in the line of duty.
