The late 23rd Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, has been posthumously inducted into the prestigious International Hall of Fame of the United States Army War College (USAWC)—becoming the first ever Nigerian Army officer to receive the historic honour in the institution’s 124-year history.
The solemn but colourful ceremony took place on Monday, 13 October 2025, during the opening of the Association of the United States Army (AUSA) Annual Convention at the Walter E. Washington Convention Centre in Washington, D.C.
According to a statement signed by the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Colonel Appolonia Anele, the induction marked a powerful tribute to the late General Lagbaja’s exceptional leadership, professionalism, and contributions to global security.
The Commandant of the USAWC, Major General Trevor J. Bredenkamp, presented the posthumous honour in recognition of the late General Lagbaja’s sterling leadership and service. The recognition, she said, underscores the late COAS’s outstanding record as an alumnus who rose to the peak of his career and left an enduring legacy of excellence.
Lieutenant General Lagbaja was one of six eminent global figures inducted at this year’s event. His enshrinement in the International Hall of Fame represents a milestone moment for Nigeria, highlighting the country’s growing profile in international military circles.
Representing the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, at the ceremony, Major General Adeleke Ayannuga received the honour alongside Mrs Maria Abiodun Lagbaja on behalf of the late COAS.
In his message, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, expressed profound pride in the recognition, describing it as a lasting honour for the Nigerian Army.
“This induction immortalises the distinguished service and leadership legacy of the late Lieutenant General Lagbaja.
“It also reinforces the Nigerian Army’s commitment to the universal ideals of professionalism, discipline and dedication to global peace and security.”
Also in attendance were senior officers, including the Director General, Nigerian Army Heritage and Future Centre, Major General G.O. Adesina; Director General, Defence Headquarters Joint Doctrine and Warfare Centre, Major General G.T.O. Ajetunmobi; and Mrs Deborah Aboderin of the Office of Security Cooperation, U.S. Embassy Abuja.
Nigeria’s Defence Attaché to the United States, Nigerian Army officers undergoing professional military education at the National Defence University, the USAWC and the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College, as well as senior Army officers participating in the AUSA 2025 Annual Convention, were also present.