Late Lt. General Taofeek Lagbaja
The federal government has renamed the iconic Ikeja Military Cantonment after the late former Chief of Army Staff, Lt-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja.
The cantonment is now to be known as, and called Lt. General Taofeek Lagbaja Cantonment.
Speaking at the renaming ceremony on Friday – yesterday, February 28 – Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State paid glowing tributes to the late General Lagbaja, describing him as one of Nigeria’s most distinguished military officers.
Emphasizing that the renaming was more than a symbolic gesture, Sanwo-Olu said, “This is a statement of respect, gratitude, and recognition for courage, sacrifice, and service,” describing the cantonment as a longstanding emblem of bravery and patriotism, home to countless soldiers who have defended Nigeria’s sovereignty, often at the cost of their lives.
The Governor praised Lt.-Gen. Lagbaja’s exemplary career, which spanned over three decades in the Nigerian Army.
“He served with unwavering dedication, playing key roles in counter-insurgency operations, internal security, and peacekeeping missions,” Sanwo-Olu noted. “Renaming this cantonment after him is a fitting tribute to a leader whose life embodied these values.”
Sanwo-Olu urged Nigerians to draw inspiration from Lagbaja’s patriotism, courage and discipline, calling the honor a powerful message to the armed forces and future generations.
“We must celebrate our brave men and women in uniform, not just in times of conflict, but in moments of peace,” he said, stressing that their sacrifices would never be forgotten.
The Governor also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting the military through security collaborations, infrastructure projects, and welfare initiatives.
“Lt.-Gen. Lagbaja’s dedication to Nigeria’s security and his leadership in counter-terrorism efforts are worthy of this recognition,” he added. “His name will now be etched into the foundation of this cantonment, a reminder of service, excellence, and selflessness.”
The Lagos Governor extended gratitude to the Nigerian Army and the Ministry of Defence for spearheading the initiative, calling it a vital step in fostering a culture of honoring national heroes.
The late Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja served as Chief of Army Staff from June 19, 2023, until his death on November 5, 2024, aged 56, after a brief illness.
Appointed by President Bola Tinubu to succeed Lt.-Gen. Faruk Yahaya, Lagbaja left behind a legacy of professionalism and sacrifice during his 17-month tenure.
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