The United States Army War College (USAWC) has posthumously inducted the late Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, into its prestigious International Hall of Fame (IHOF).
The induction took place on Monday, October 13, during the opening ceremony 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 in Abuja by the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Lt.-Col. Appolonia Anele, the recognition celebrates Lagbaja’s exceptional leadership, professionalism, and contributions to global peace and security.
The Commandant of the USAWC, Maj.-Gen. Trevor Bredenkamp, noted that the late General’s inclusion in the Hall of Fame represents a historic milestone for Nigeria, as he becomes the first Nigerian Army officer to receive the honour in the 124-year history of the institution.
Maj.-Gen. Adeleke Ayannuga received the award on behalf of the current 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 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,” whose legacy, he said, “continues to inspire service, discipline, and dedication to duty within the Nigerian Army and beyond.”p
