The United States Army War College (USAWC) has posthumously inducted the late Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, into the International Hall of Fame (IHOF).
The induction ceremony 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, Washington, D.C.
Army spokesperson Lt.-Col. Appolonia Anele said in a statement on Tuesday that 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 Mr 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 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,” Ms Anele said.