The late Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, has been posthumously inducted into the prestigious United States Army War College (USAWC) International Hall of Fame (IHOF).
The historic induction took place on Monday during the opening 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 by the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Lt.-Col. Appolonia Anele, the event marked a significant moment not only for the Nigerian Army but for the nation as a whole.
She confirmed that Lagbaja became the first Nigerian Army officer to be enshrined in the Hall of Fame in the USAWC’s 124-year history a record-breaking milestone.
Anele explained that the Commandant of the USAWC, Maj.-Gen. Trevor Bredenkamp, described the late general’s induction as a recognition of his “outstanding leadership, professionalism, and contribution to global peace and security.”
The honour, she added, underscores Lagbaja’s lasting legacy as one of Africa’s finest military leaders, whose dedication to duty and international cooperation set new standards for leadership.
Receiving the award on behalf of the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, was Maj.-Gen. Adeleke Ayannuga, joined by Mrs. Maria Lagbaja, widow of the late Army Chief.
The event was attended by senior Nigerian military officials, including Maj.-Gen. Gbemiga Adesina, Director General of the Nigerian Army Heritage and Future Centre, and Maj.-Gen. G.T.O. Ajetunmobi, Director General of the Joint Doctrine and Warfare Centre.
Mrs. Deborah Aboderin from the U.S. Embassy in Abuja also graced the occasion, representing the strong defence partnership between Nigeria and the United States.
Lt.-Gen. Oluyede, in his remarks, praised the induction as a “fitting tribute to one of Nigeria’s finest military leaders, whose legacy continues to inspire service, discipline, and dedication to duty.”
Moreover, the recognition is viewed as a symbol of international respect for Nigeria’s growing contribution to peacekeeping and regional stability.
Lagbaja’s tenure as Chief of Army Staff was defined by reforms, professional ethics, and enhanced collaboration with global defence institutions.
