The Nigerian Army has officially renamed the Ikeja Cantonment in honour of the late Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja.
Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, described the decision as a tribute to Lagbaja’s exemplary courage and service to Nigeria.
“This renaming is not just a symbolic gesture; it reflects our deep respect, gratitude, and recognition for the courage and sacrifices of one of Nigeria’s most exceptional military officers, Lieutenant General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja,” Sanwo-Olu stated.
“By renaming the cantonment after Lieutenant General Lagbaja, we honour a leader whose life exemplified courage, discipline, and patriotism. His distinguished service in the Nigerian Army for over three decades, particularly in counterinsurgency, internal security, and peacekeeping operations, warrants this recognition.”
The governor also commended the Nigerian Army and the Ministry of Defence for this initiative, emphasising that it fosters a culture of acknowledging and celebrating national heroes.
Chief of Army Staff, Olufemi Oluyede, also paid tribute to his late predecessor, praising his infrastructural developments during his time as Commander of the 9th Brigade. Oluyede noted that renaming the cantonment was a fitting tribute to immortalise Lagbaja’s legacy.
Lagbaja served as the Chief of Army Staff from June 19, 2023, until his untimely passing on November 5, 2024, at the age of 56, following an illness. He was appointed by President Bola Tinubu to succeed Lieutenant General Faruk Yahaya. Despite his brief 17-month tenure, Lagbaja left behind a profound legacy of professionalism and sacrifice.
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