The Nigerian Army has renamed the Ikeja cantonment in Lagos after the late Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, in honour of his exceptional service and sacrifice to the nation.
Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, announced the renaming during a ceremony on February 28, 2025, describing the decision as a symbol of respect and gratitude for Lagbaja’s dedication to the country.
“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 stated.
The late Lagbaja, who served as Chief of Army Staff from June 19, 2023, until his death on November 5, 2024, was highly regarded for his contributions to counterinsurgency, internal security, and peacekeeping missions during his over three decades of service.
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Chief of Army Staff, Olufemi Oluyede, also paid glowing tributes to his predecessor, describing him as a visionary leader whose infrastructural projects and dedication to the army made the Ikeja cantonment the most suitable place to immortalize his name.
Lagbaja, who passed away at the age of 56 after a brief illness, left behind a legacy of professionalism, patriotism, and unwavering service to the nation.
The renaming of the cantonment is seen as a significant step in recognizing the contributions of fallen heroes in Nigeria’s military history.