Sanwo-Olu, CDS, COAS, others inaugurates TA Lagbaja Cantonment in Lagos   

The Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa; Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Olufemi Oluyede; late Lt. General Taoheed Abiodun Lagbaja’s widow, Mrs. Mariya Lagbaja; and other top military officers were at the former Ikeja Military Cantonment on Friday where it was renamed TA Lagbaja Cantonment in memory of the late immediate past Chief of Army Staff, Lagbaja.

The cantonment was renamed after Lagbaja in commemoration of his 57th birthday and first posthumous birthday.

Sanwo-Olu described the event as historic and a recognition of Lagbaja’s service as one of Nigeria’s finest military officers.

Sanwo-Olu said Lagbaja’s dedication to Nigeria’s security, leadership in counterterrorism efforts, and unwavering commitment to professionalism in the Nigerian Army are worthy of the honour bestowed on him after his death.

He said, “This is more than a change of name; it is a statement of respect, gratitude, and recognition for the courage, sacrifice, and service of one of Nigeria’s finest military officers, Lieutenant General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, the former Chief of Army Staff.

“This cantonment has long been a symbol of courage, discipline, and patriotism. It has been home to thousands of brave men and women who have defended our sovereignty with their lives. It has witnessed moments of triumph, resilience, and sacrifice. Renaming it after Lieutenant General Lagbaja is a fitting tribute to a leader whose life embodied these values.

“As a distinguished Infantry officer, he served the Nigerian Army with unwavering dedication for over three decades, playing key roles in counterinsurgency operations, internal security, and peacekeeping missions. By naming this cantonment after him, we send a strong message to our armed forces and future generations that Nigeria honours its heroes.

“Lieutenant General Lagbaja’s dedication to Nigeria’s security, his leadership in counterterrorism efforts, and his unwavering commitment to professionalism in the Nigerian Army are worthy of this honour. His name will now be permanently etched into the foundation of this cantonment, reminding us all of the values he stands for: service, excellence, and selflessness.”

Speaking earlier, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, and Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Olufemi Oluyede paid tributes to the late Lagbaja for his service to the Nigerian Army and Nigeria at large, especially during his tenure as the Chief of Army Staff.

While commemorating the event, the guests planted trees in front of the newly constructed and commissioned entrance gate of the TA Ladoja Cantonment.