Late COAS Lagbaja honoured by U.S. Army War College, inducted into International Hall of Fame

The United States Army War College (USAWC) has posthumously honoured the late Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, by inducting him into its prestigious International Hall of Fame (IHOF).

The ceremony took place on Monday during the opening session of the 2025 Association of the United States Army (AUSA) Annual Convention at the Walter E. Washington Convention Centre in Washington, D.C.

According to a statement issued on Tuesday in Abuja by the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Lt.-Col. Appolonia Anele, the recognition celebrates Lagbaja’s outstanding leadership, professionalism, and contributions to global military cooperation.

Anele said the Commandant of the USAWC, Maj.-Gen. Trevor Bredenkamp said the honour recognised the late General’s outstanding leadership, professionalism and contribution to global peace and security.

She said that Lagbaja had become the first Nigerian Army officer to be enshrined in the Hall of Fame in the 124-year history of the institution, marking a historic milestone for Nigeria’s military.

According to her, Maj.-Gen. Adeleke Ayannuga received the honour on behalf of the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, alongside Mrs Maria Lagbaja, the widow of the late Army Chief.

“Also in attendance were Maj.-Gen. Gbemiga Adesina, Director General, Nigerian Army Heritage and Future Centre; Maj.-Gen. G.T.O. Ajetunmobi, Director General, Joint Doctrine and Warfare Centre; and Mrs Deborah Aboderin of the U.S. Embassy, Abuja.

“The Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Oluyede, described the honour as a fitting tribute to one of Nigeria’s finest military leaders, whose legacy continues to inspire service, discipline and dedication to duty,” she said.