Nigeria's Chief of Army Staff, General Taoreed Lagbaja, has passed away at the age of 56 following an extended illness, President Bola Tinubu confirmed.

The general died on Tuesday evening in Lagos, although the specifics of his illness were not disclosed.

In a statement posted on X by presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu extended his "heartfelt condolences" to General Lagbaja’s family.

"President Tinubu prays for eternal peace for Lt General Lagbaja and honors his remarkable service to the country," the statement said.

General Lagbaja's death represents a profound loss to the Nigerian military, where he had been instrumental in various internal security operations.

He is survived by his wife, Mariya, and their two children.