Gen. Lagbaja, an Osun State native, was known for his unwavering commitment to the country, dedicating both his youth and adult life to service as a commissioned officer in the Nigerian Army.
Among his notable contributions was his leadership as Theatre Commander of Operation Lafiya Dole, where his strategic acumen played a pivotal role in combating insurgency in the Northeast. Gen. Lagbaja also served as a leading commander within the Multinational Joint Task Force (MJTF) to unite Lake Chad Basin countries against terrorism, further cementing his legacy as a respected and effective military leader.