United States Army War College (USAWC) has posthumously inducted Nigeria’s late Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, into its prestigious International Hall of Fame (IHOF), marking a historic milestone for the Nigerian Armed Forces.
The induction ceremony took place on Monday during the opening session of the 2025 Association of the United States Army (AUSA) Annual Convention, held at the Walter E. Washington Convention Centre in Washington, D.C.
In a statement issued in Abuja by the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Lt.-Col. Appolonia Anele, the recognition was described as a celebration of Lagbaja’s “exceptional leadership, professionalism, and enduring contributions to global peace and security.”
Speaking at the event, Commandant of the USAWC, Maj.-Gen. Trevor Bredenkamp, noted that Lagbaja’s inclusion in the Hall of Fame was not only a tribute to his distinguished career but also a landmark achievement for Nigeria, as he becomes the first Nigerian Army officer to receive the honour in the 124-year history of the institution.
“This induction reflects the global impact of General Lagbaja’s service and the respect he earned among international military circles,” Bredenkamp said.
The award was received on behalf of the current Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, by Maj.-Gen. Adeleke Ayannuga, alongside Mrs. Maria Lagbaja, widow of the late Army Chief.
Other dignitaries present included Maj.-Gen. Gbemiga Adesina, Director General of the Nigerian Army Heritage and Future Centre; Maj.-Gen. G.T.O. Ajetunmobi, Director General of the Joint Doctrine and Warfare Centre; and Mrs. Deborah Aboderin of the U.S. Embassy in Abuja.
In his remarks, Lt.-Gen. Oluyede described the induction as a “fitting tribute to one of Nigeria’s finest military leaders,” adding that Lagbaja’s legacy continues to inspire “service, discipline, and dedication to duty within the Nigerian Army and beyond.”
Lagbaja, who passed away earlier this year, was widely respected for his strategic acumen and commitment to regional stability. His tenure as Chief of Army Staff was marked by reforms in counter-insurgency operations and enhanced international military cooperation.
The USAWC International Hall of Fame honours alumni who have attained the highest positions in their nation’s armed forces and have made significant contributions to international peace and security.
