Former Chief of Defence Staff, General Lucky Irabor (rtd) on Friday unveiled his new book, “Scars: Nigeria’s Journey and the Boko Haram Conundrum”.
He declared that the work is not meant to be an accusation but rather a powerful call for the nation to look inward and address its challenges.
Speaking at the public presentation in Abuja, Irabor described the book as an “awakening reality” that must spur a national dialogue on genuine solutions to Nigeria’s ongoing security problems.
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“Scars, the Journey, and Boko Haram Conundrum is not an indictment; it is a national soul-searching presentation,” Irabor stated.
He added that the book forces a choice: “either act dutifully for progress, or do nothing and turn towards extinction.”
Irabor stressed that the account in the book represents the painful truth as I see it, with the core objective of generating a national conversation focused on “credible solutions to the challenges.”
He invited the audience to join him on a journey of reflection, empathy, and hope.
The former CDS urged Nigerians to use the book as an opportunity to reflect on their shared past, remember the victims of the Boko Haram atrocities, and recommit to the principles of justice, equity, and peace.
He emphasised his belief that human existence is defined by problem-solving.
Quoting Nelson Mandela, Irabor stressed that all of Nigeria’s national experiences should be viewed as “wins and lessons”, calling for sustained optimism in shaping the country’s future.
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In a philanthropic gesture, he announced that all profits generated from the sale of the book would be dedicated to supporting schools and hospitals, institutions he and his family have been sustaining over the years.
Irabor affirmed that the book is not a narrative; it is a call for sustained hope and optimism, expressing confidence that collectively, we can turn our scars into victories of nationhood.