Late COAS Lt. Gen. TA Lagbaja Inducted into US Army War College International Hall of Fame

The United States Army War College (USAWC) has conferred a historic honour on the late Lieutenant General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, Nigeria’s 23rd Chief of Army Staff (COAS), by inducting him posthumously into its prestigious International Hall of Fame (IHOF)

The induction ceremony, held on Monday, October 13, 2025, during the opening of the Association of the United States Army (AUSA) Annual Convention in Washington D.C., marks a significant milestone: General Lagbaja is the first Nigerian Army officer to be enshrined in the USAWC International Hall of Fame in the institution’s 124-year history.

Major General Trevor J. Bredenkamp, Commandant of the USAWC, presented the posthumous honour. He cited the late General Lagbaja’s sterling leadership, visionary service, and exceptional contributions to the advancement of military professionalism and international peace and security." The recognition underscores his outstanding career trajectory as an alumnus who reached the apex of the Nigerian Army. 

The late Lieutenant General Lagbaja was one of six eminent individuals honoured at this year’s event.

The award was received on behalf of the late COAS by Major General Adeleke Ayannuga representing the current Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, alongside Mrs. Maria Abiodun Lagbaja. 

The current Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, expressed profound pride in the singular honour. He affirmed that the USAWC’s recognition not only immortalizes the late General Lagbaja’s distinguished service but also reinforces the Nigerian Army’s commitment to the universal ideals of professionalism, discipline, and dedication to global peace and security. 

The ceremony was attended by several Nigerian Army dignitaries, including Major General G.O. Adesina and Major General G.T.O. Ajetunmobi, as well as the Nigerian Defense Attaché and Nigerian Army officers undergoing professional military education in the US.