The Nigerian Army has officially renamed the Ikeja Cantonment after the late Lieutenant General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, in recognition of his distinguished service and sacrifices to the nation. The renaming ceremony took place on Friday, with Lagos Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu leading the event.
In his address, Governor Sanwo-Olu emphasized that the renaming of the cantonment serves as a tribute to Lagbaja’s exceptional courage, discipline, and patriotism throughout his career. “This renaming is not just a new title; it represents our respect, gratitude, and recognition for the courage and sacrifices of one of Nigeria’s exceptional military officers,” Sanwo-Olu said, referring to Lagbaja’s exceptional contributions to Nigeria’s security.
Lagbaja, who served as Chief of Army Staff (COAS) until his passing, was lauded for his efforts in counterinsurgency, internal security, and peacekeeping operations. “His distinguished service in the Nigerian Army over three decades deserves recognition,” Sanwo-Olu added, commending the Nigerian Army and the Ministry of Defence for the initiative, which honors the contributions of the country’s military heroes.
The Chief of Army Staff, Olufemi Oluyede, highlighted the significant infrastructural improvements Lagbaja initiated during his time as the commander of the 9 Brigade.
These improvements included extensive renovations of accommodations for both officers and soldiers, upgrades to the cantonment’s medical and educational facilities, and the restoration of the water treatment plant. Oluyede noted that Lagbaja was also instrumental in solving the cantonment’s long-standing electricity supply issues.
In addition to the renaming, the cantonment underwent various upgrades, including a striking engraving of Lagbaja’s picture made from over 4,000 nails at the refurbished main gate, as well as new digital boards and renovated quarters for officers and soldiers. A newly built residence for the commander of the 70 Supply and Transport Command was also part of the updates.
The event coincided with what would have been Lagbaja’s 57th birthday and was attended by top military personnel, including all serving members of the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) Course 39 and Lagbaja’s coursemates, who gathered to honor his memory and legacy.