Tinubu Hails Ex-CDS Irabor at 60, Describes Him as a True War Commander
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has extended heartfelt felicitations to former Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Lucky Eluonye Irabor (rtd.), on the occasion of his 60th birthday, describing him as a “true war commander” and a patriot who served Nigeria with courage and honour.
In a statement issued from the State House, President Tinubu praised General Irabor for his outstanding contributions to national security and his pivotal role in the fight against terrorism and insurgency, particularly during his tenure as Chief of Defence Staff.
He noted that Irabor’s leadership, strategic acumen, and sense of duty exemplified the highest ideals of military professionalism.
The President also commended the retired general for his newly launched book, Scars: Nigeria’s Journey and the Boko Haram Conundrum, which he described as a significant addition to Nigeria’s security literature.
The book, according to Tinubu, provides deep insights into the country’s long struggle against terrorism and offers valuable lessons for policy formulation and peacebuilding.
Represented by the Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, at the book presentation in Abuja, the President said Irabor’s experiences and reflections would help shape national understanding of insurgency and guide future counterterrorism strategies.
“General Irabor is a true war commander — disciplined, intelligent, and patriotic,” Tinubu said. “He led with courage during some of the nation’s most difficult security challenges, and his commitment to Nigeria’s unity and peace remains unquestionable.”
General Irabor, who turned 60 on Sunday, expressed gratitude to the President and Nigerians for their support throughout his military career.
He noted that the book was written to document Nigeria’s experiences in the war against Boko Haram and to preserve institutional memory for future military and political leaders.
“I felt it was necessary to tell our story — not just of battles fought, but of resilience, sacrifice, and the lessons we must carry forward,” he said.
Born in Delta State, Irabor served in several critical military positions before his appointment as CDS in 2021.
He was previously the Theatre Commander of Operation Lafiya Dole, the military’s main counter-insurgency operation in the North-East, and later headed the Defence Headquarters Strategic Command.
Security analysts have described Tinubu’s tribute as a recognition of Irabor’s lasting legacy in Nigeria’s security architecture and an acknowledgment of the professionalism he brought to military leadership.
They noted that such gestures could help strengthen ties between the civilian government and the armed forces.
As Nigeria continues to confront complex security challenges, Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting the military and fostering policies that build on the foundations laid by officers like General Irabor.
The celebration of Irabor’s 60th birthday thus became more than a personal milestone — it also served as a moment of reflection on Nigeria’s ongoing pursuit of peace and stability, and on the enduring contributions of those who have dedicated their lives to defending it.
