In the history of the Nigerian military, there are four Service Chiefs who died in office. Here are their profiles:
*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.
Shittu Alao October 15, 1969
Shittu Alao, Nigeria’s Chief of Air Staff, died tragically at the age of 32 on October 15, 1969, just two years after assuming his role. Alao was a promising young officer, recognized for his capability and determination to lead the Nigerian Air Force independently and effectively, steering it away from foreign control.
Alao’s untimely death occurred while he was on active duty, piloting a solo flight in an L-29 aircraft. During the flight, he encountered severe weather conditions near Benin and struggled to navigate through dense fog. As he strained to maintain control, the aircraft ran out of fuel, forcing him to attempt an emergency landing. Unfortunately, the maneuver was cut short when the aircraft collided with trees, resulting in a fatal crash.
Alao’s passing was a significant loss to the Nigerian Air Force and the nation, marking the end of a career that had shown immense potential and leadership at a crucial time in the country’s history.
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.
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.
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