Irabor pledges book proceeds to schools, hospitals, urges national unity
By: Zagazola Makama
Former Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Lucky Irabor (rtd.), has pledged to channel proceeds from his newly launched memoir, “Scars: Wings and Lessons”, into supporting schools and hospitals across the country.
Irabor made the commitment on Friday in Abuja during the public presentation of the book, which coincided with his 60th birthday celebration.
He said the decision was in line with his family’s long-standing dedication to community development and social impact, stressing that service to country should not end with military command.
“Let me add that the proceeds from this book will be used to sustain support to schools and hospitals which my family and I have been committed to over the years,” he said.
The retired general explained that “Scars: Wings and Lessons” was not only a personal reflection but also a contribution to Nigeria’s search for solutions to insecurity.
According to him, the book draws from his experiences in counter-insurgency operations, his journey through the ranks of the armed forces, and the lessons learned in managing one of the country’s most complex national security crises.
He said the memoir also sought to provide a blueprint for national resilience.
“Collectively, we can turn our scars into victories of a national, transforming nationhood,” Irabor said.
He expressed gratitude to his family, friends, and colleagues for their encouragement throughout the writing process, noting that their unwavering support sustained him during the project.
Irabor also commended the publishers and production team for their professionalism in transforming his vision into reality, adding that the book would serve as a resource for academics, security practitioners, and policymakers.
The event drew dignitaries from across Nigeria, including former President Goodluck Jonathan, the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar III, senior military officers, service chiefs, royal fathers, and members of the diplomatic corps.
Speakers at the event described the memoir as a timely addition to Nigeria’s intellectual and security discourse, noting that it offers both historical insight and practical lessons on confronting violent extremism.
Jonathan, in his remarks, commended Irabor for his courage and patriotism in documenting Nigeria’s journey through insurgency, while the Sultan urged Nigerians to embrace unity as a foundation for lasting peace.
Also speaking, Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, said the book would serve as a guiding document for the armed forces and a reference point for future generations.
The launch featured a review of the book, goodwill messages, and a call for Nigerians to use Irabor’s reflections as a basis for strengthening national cohesion and collective security.
