Why US Army War College Honoured Nigeria’s Late Army Chief With Hall of Fame Induction
On February 11, 2026, a Facebook user, POLAC VS NDA claimed that Late Lieutenant General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja was posthumously honoured by the United States Army War College, USAWC. NV-A went ahead to accurately clarify the circumstances behind Lagbaja’s induction into the college’s hall of fame.
What Happened?
The United States Army War College, USAWC, posthumously inducted the late Nigerian Army Chief, Lieutenant General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja into its International Hall of Fame, IHOF, one of the college’s highest honours.
This induction took place on October 13, 2025, during the Association of the United States Army (AUSA) Annual Convention in Washington, D.C., a major gathering of military leaders from around the world.
Who Was Lt. Gen. Lagbaja?
Lieutenant General Lagbaja was a senior Nigerian Army officer who served as the 23rd Chief of Army Staff (COAS) for Nigeria. He had a long military career spanning over three decades, including command roles in key operations and peacekeeping assignments. He passed away on November 5, 2024 while in office at age 56. He was also an alumnus of the US Army War College, where he earned a Master’s in Strategic Studies. This established a direct relationship to the institution that later honoured him.
What Is The International Hall Of Fame?
The International Hall of Fame at the USAWC was established to recognise international military graduates who have risen to the highest ranks in their country’s armed forces and made significant contributions to peace, military professionalism, or stability.
The inductees are selected for distinguished leadership and global impact in defence and security. It honours former International Fellows and only a small number of alumni across many nations are chosen, making induction a rare and prestigious recognition.
Why This Is Significant
The induction of Lt. Gen. Lagbaja into the International Hall of Fame is notable for several reasons:
He became the first Nigerian Army officer ever inducted into the USAWC International Hall of Fame since the award’s inception over a century ago. By honouring Lagbaja, the USAWC also emphasises the importance of international military education, partnership, and shared commitment to global stability.
The honour recognises his visionary leadership, professionalism, and contributions to peace and security, both within Nigeria and internationally as a military strategist and statesman.
At the event, the Commandant of the USAWC praised Lagbaja as a leader whose service embodied professionalism, courage, and humanitarian dedication. Nigerian Army officials described the induction as a “proud and defining moment” that immortalises his legacy.
His widow, Mrs Maria Lagbaja, accepted the honour on behalf of his family.
