The United States Army War College (USAWC) has posthumously honoured the late Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, by inducting him into its prestigious International Hall of Fame.
According to a statement issued on Tuesday by the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Colonel Appolonia Anele, the honour was conferred during the opening ceremony of the Association of the United States Army (AUSA) Annual Convention held on Monday, October 13, at the Walter E. Washington Convention Centre in Washington D.C.
The U.S. Army described the induction as a recognition of the late General Lagbaja’s “sterling leadership, visionary service, and exceptional contributions to military professionalism and international peace and security.”
“This recognition underscores the late General Lagbaja’s outstanding achievements as an alumnus of the institution who rose meritoriously to the zenith of his military career as Nigeria’s 23rd Chief of Army Staff,” the statement read in part.
The award was presented by the Commandant of the U.S. Army War College, Major General Trevor J. Bredenkamp, in what was described as a solemn yet colourful ceremony.
Representing the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, at the event, Major General Adeleke Ayannuga received the award alongside Mrs Maria Abiodun Lagbaja, the widow of the late Army Chief.
Lieutenant General Oluyede expressed deep pride in the posthumous recognition, describing it as a timeless tribute to one of Nigeria’s most visionary and accomplished military leaders.
“This singular honour bestowed upon Lieutenant General Lagbaja not only immortalises his distinguished service but also reinforces the Nigerian Army’s commitment to the universal ideals of professionalism, discipline, and dedication to global peace and security,” Oluyede stated.
The induction places the late General Lagbaja among a select group of international military officers who, after completing their studies at the U.S. Army War College, went on to become chiefs of defence or army staff in their respective countries.
The Nigerian Army said the honour symbolises both a national and international appreciation of Lagbaja’s leadership and his lifelong dedication to peace, discipline, and excellence in service.
Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, who served as Nigeria’s 23rd Chief of Army Staff, was widely respected for his operational brilliance, humility, and unwavering commitment to duty until his passing.
