Former Chief of Defence Staff, General Lucky Irabor (rtd), has described his new book, “Scars: Nigeria’s Journey and the Boko Haram Conundrum”, as a non-partisan call for reflection, urging Nigerians to engage in deep national soul-searching over the country’s prolonged fight against terrorism.
Speaking on Friday during the official unveiling of the book in Abuja, General Irabor clarified that the publication is not an indictment of any person or institution, but rather a candid presentation of Nigeria’s difficult journey through one of its most painful security crises.
A call to action through reflection
According to the retired military chief, Scars serves as an “awakening reality” for Nigeria, one that should compel citizens, policymakers, and institutions to either take action toward national progress or risk watching the nation regress further.
“Scars, the Journey, and Boko Haram Conundrum is not an indictment; it is a national soul-searching presentation,” Irabor said. “It is an awakening reality to either act dutifully for progress, or do nothing and turn towards extinction.”
He stressed that the experiences and insights documented in the book are based on personal truths and professional encounters during his years of service, especially at the peak of Nigeria’s battle against the Boko Haram insurgency.
Honouring victims, learning lessons
Irabor emphasized that the book is also an effort to honour the victims of terrorism, both civilian and military, and to preserve the historical memory of the conflict. He recalled the atrocities committed by the terrorist group and the profound impact they had on Nigerian society.
“We must remember the victims. We must learn from the scars. We must never forget the struggle. And we must commit to justice, equity, and peace,” he added.
He further stated that the fight against Boko Haram has revealed deep structural and moral weaknesses in the nation’s security system, governance institutions, and even civil society. However, Irabor believes that by confronting these issues head-on, Nigeria can chart a better path forward.
“Exist to solve problems,” Irabor insists
In one of the most striking moments of his speech, the former Defence Chief made a philosophical observation about purpose and responsibility:
“I have always believed that man exists to solve problems. If you are not solving problems, then your existence is worthless,” he declared.
Irabor urged citizens, especially the youth, to take a more proactive role in shaping Nigeria’s future, warning that failure to address the root causes of insecurity—such as poor governance, lack of justice, and inequality—could have devastating long-term effects.
A tool for national conversation
The retired general said his hope is that the book will spark constructive national dialogue on Nigeria’s security strategy, policymaking, and civil-military relations. He invited the public to see the book not just as a memoir, but as a strategic guide informed by real-life military and political experiences.
“As we unveil this book, I invite you to join me on a journey of reflection, empathy, and hope,” he concluded.
Background on the Boko Haram conflict
The Boko Haram insurgency began in 2009 and has claimed thousands of lives, displaced millions, and disrupted economic and social activities, particularly in the North-East region of Nigeria. Despite military operations and regional collaborations, the group has continued to pose a security challenge for over a decade.
Final thoughts
With Scars, Irabor becomes one of the few top-ranking military officials to publicly document their experiences in Nigeria’s fight against terrorism. His account is likely to spark debate among stakeholders and policymakers seeking lasting solutions to the Boko Haram conundrum.
The book is expected to serve as a reference for future leaders, academics, and anyone interested in understanding the complex nature of insurgency and counter-terrorism efforts in Nigeria.
