Lucky Irabor biography – Discover the life story of retired General Lucky Irabor, former Chief of Defence Staff. Learn about his age, wife Victoria, children, military career, achievements, and legacy.
Contents
- 1 Who is Lucky Irabor?
- 2 Quick Facts About Lucky Irabor
- 3 Early Life and Family Background
- 4 Education and Military Training
- 5 Military Career and Key Appointments
- 6 Appointment as Chief of Defence Staff
- 7 Military Career Timeline & Major Milestones
- 8 Personal Life: Wife and Family
- 9 Honours, Awards and Recognition
- 10 Retirement and Life After Military Service
- 11 Net Worth and Financial Profile
- 12 Legacy and Impact on Nigerian Military
- 13 Interesting Facts About Lucky Irabor
- 14 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- 14.1 1. How old is Lucky Irabor?
- 14.2 2. Who is Lucky Irabor’s wife?
- 14.3 3. What is the PEARL philosophy?
- 14.4 4. When did Lucky Irabor retire from the military?
- 14.5 5. What is Lucky Irabor’s state of origin?
- 14.6 6. What was Lucky Irabor’s role in fighting Boko Haram?
- 14.7 7. What national honour did Lucky Irabor receive?
- 14.8 8. Where did Lucky Irabor study?
- 15 Conclusion
Who is Lucky Irabor?
General Lucky Eluonye Onyenuchea Irabor is a retired Nigerian Army General and former Chief of Defence Staff who served Nigeria’s Armed Forces for 37 years with distinction. Born on October 5, 1965, in Aliokpu Agbor, Delta State, he rose through the military ranks to become one of Nigeria’s most respected military leaders.
His appointment as Chief of Defence Staff by President Muhammadu Buhari on January 26, 2021, came at a critical time when Nigeria faced severe security challenges. General Irabor led the Nigerian military with a clear philosophy called PEARL, representing a military that is Professional, Effective, Agile, Result-oriented, and Loyal to constituted authority. This command philosophy became the foundation for Nigeria’s fight against terrorism, insurgency, and other security threats.
Before his appointment as Chief of Defence Staff, Irabor distinguished himself as the Theatre Commander of Operation Lafiya Dole, Nigeria’s counter-insurgency operation against Boko Haram in the Northeast. He was also the Force Commander of the Multinational Joint Task Force in the Lake Chad Basin Area. His leadership resulted in significant military victories, including the clearance of the Sambisa Forest and the capture of Alargano Forest, which was considered the spiritual base of Boko Haram terrorists.
General Irabor retired from active military service on June 19, 2023, after President Bola Tinubu appointed new service chiefs. His retirement marked the end of a remarkable military career that saw him receive numerous national and international honors, including the Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic (CFR) in 2022. He is married to Barrister Victoria Anwuli Irabor, and together they have two children.
Quick Facts About Lucky Irabor
Full Name | Lucky Eluonye Onyenuchea Irabor |
---|---|
Date of Birth | October 5, 1965 |
Age | 60 years old (as of 2025) |
Place of Birth | Aliokpu Agbor, Ika South LGA, Delta State |
State of Origin | Delta State, Nigeria |
Tribe | Igbo |
Wife | Barrister Victoria Anwuli Irabor |
Children | Two (a son and a daughter) |
Highest Military Rank | General (Four-Star General) |
Previous Position | Chief of Defence Staff (2021-2023) |
Military Commission | Second Lieutenant (June 28, 1986) |
Regular Course | 34 Regular Course, NDA |
Years of Service | 37 years (1986-2023) |
National Honours | CFR, psc, NAM, GSS, ndc, FCMH |
Retirement Date | June 19, 2023 |
Net Worth | Not publicly disclosed |
Early Life and Family Background
General Lucky Irabor was born on October 5, 1965, in Aliokpu Agbor, a town in Ika South Local Government Area of Delta State, Nigeria. He hails from the Igbo tribe and grew up in the Mid-Western Region of Nigeria, which is now part of Delta State.
Military Family Roots
Irabor was raised in a military family, which significantly influenced his decision to pursue a career in the armed forces. His early exposure to military discipline and values shaped his character and prepared him for the challenges he would face in his military career.
Education and Upbringing
He received his early education at the Nigerian Military School in Zaria, an institution known for instilling discipline and academic excellence in young students. This foundational education at the military school prepared him for the rigorous training he would undergo at the Nigerian Defence Academy.
Growing up in a military environment taught young Lucky the importance of service, sacrifice, and patriotism. These values would later define his approach to leadership and his commitment to defending Nigeria’s territorial integrity.
Cultural Heritage
As an Igbo man from Delta State, Irabor represents the rich cultural diversity of Nigeria’s armed forces. His background from Agbor, a significant town in the region, connects him to a community with a strong tradition of producing accomplished individuals in various fields.
Education and Military Training
Nigerian Defence Academy
In 1983, Lucky Irabor gained admission into the prestigious Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) in Kaduna as a member of the 34 Regular Course. This marked the beginning of his formal military education and career.
At the NDA, he studied Electrical Engineering, earning a Bachelor’s degree in the field. His technical education would later prove valuable in his military career, particularly in his early assignments in the Signals Corps.
Military Commission
On June 28, 1986, Irabor was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant into the Signals Corps of the Nigerian Army. This commission marked his official entry into active military service and the start of what would become a distinguished 37-year career.
Professional Military Education
Junior Staff Course
In 1995, Irabor attended the Armed Forces Command and Staff College (AFCSC) in Jaji, Kaduna State, where he completed his Junior Staff Course. This training equipped him with essential command and staff skills required for mid-level military leadership positions.
Senior Staff Course
Between 2000 and 2001, he attended the Ghana Armed Forces Staff College in Teshi, Accra, Ghana, for his Senior Staff Course. This international military education exposed him to different military doctrines and strategies from the West African region.
National Defence College
In 2010, Irabor attended the National Defence College in Bangladesh, furthering his education in strategic military leadership and national security matters. This advanced training prepared him for higher command positions in the Nigerian Armed Forces.
Harvard Kennedy School
Demonstrating his commitment to continuous learning, Irabor attended the Harvard Kennedy School of Government and Executive Education in the United States in both 2012 and 2017. These prestigious programs enhanced his leadership capabilities and exposed him to global best practices in governance and strategic thinking.
Academic Achievements
Beyond his military education, General Irabor is an alumnus of Obafemi Awolowo University, where he studied engineering. He also holds two Master’s degrees from the University of Ghana in Accra and Bangladesh University of Professionals in Dhaka, demonstrating his dedication to academic excellence alongside his military career.
Additional Training
Throughout his career, Irabor attended numerous United Nations and African Union Peacekeeping Courses and Conferences. He also participated in specialized training, including a seminar on Combating Weapons of Mass Destruction and Terrorism at the European Centre for Security Studies in Garmisch, Germany.
Military Career and Key Appointments
General Lucky Irabor’s military career spanned 37 years, during which he held numerous strategic positions and distinguished himself in various operations.
Early Career Positions
After his commission as Second Lieutenant in 1986, Irabor began his career in the Signals Corps. His early assignments included serving as the Nigerian Defence Academy Adjutant and Commanding Officer of the 515 Signal Regiment.
Rise Through the Ranks
As he progressed through the military hierarchy, Irabor held several important positions including Commander of 53 Signals Brigade and Principal Staff Officer to the Chief of Army Staff. His technical expertise and leadership abilities earned him rapid promotions.
Nigerian Army Aviation Coordinator
One of his notable appointments was serving as the Coordinator of Nigerian Army Aviation, where he contributed to the development and operational deployment of the army’s aviation capabilities.
Operation Lafiya Dole Leadership
Theatre Commander
Irabor’s most significant military achievement came when he was appointed Theatre Commander of Operation Lafiya Dole, the Nigerian Army’s counter-insurgency operation against Boko Haram in the Northeast region.
Major Operations and Victories
As Theatre Commander, Irabor was responsible for planning and executing several successful operations including Operation CRACK DOWN 1 and 2, RESCUE FINALE, and DEEP PUNCH. These operations led to the clearance of the notorious Sambisa Forest, which had been a stronghold for Boko Haram terrorists.
Capture of Alargano Forest
One of his most celebrated achievements was the capture of Alargano Forest, considered the spiritual base of Boko Haram terrorists. This strategic victory dealt a significant blow to the insurgents’ morale and operational capabilities.
Release of Chibok Girls
The impact of the operations conducted under Irabor’s command was so significant that it forced Boko Haram to release a total of 103 Chibok girls in two separate instances, bringing relief to families and the nation.
Multinational Joint Task Force Commander
Following his success in Operation Lafiya Dole, Irabor was appointed Force Commander of the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) in the Lake Chad Basin Area. In this role, he coordinated efforts with military forces from neighboring countries including Chad, Niger, and Cameroon in the fight against terrorism.
Operation Amni Fakat
As MNJTF Commander, he successfully conducted Operation Amni Fakat to clear the Lake Chad region of Boko Haram terrorists. The operation resulted in the clearance and domination of strategic locations including Gashigar, Arege, and Metele, as well as the liberation of several hostages.
Chief of Defence Training and Operations
Before becoming Chief of Defence Staff, Irabor served as the Chief of Defence Training and Operations (CDTOP) at Defence Headquarters. In this capacity, he supervised training and operations across all branches of the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
Commander, Training and Doctrine Command
Irabor also served as the Commander of the Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC) of the Nigerian Army in Minna. This position allowed him to influence the training standards and doctrinal development of the Nigerian Army.
Appointment as Chief of Defence Staff
Historic Appointment
On January 26, 2021, President Muhammadu Buhari appointed Major General Lucky Irabor as the 17th Chief of Defence Staff of Nigeria. This appointment came following the resignation of the previous service chiefs and marked a turning point in Nigeria’s fight against insecurity.
The PEARL Philosophy
Within weeks of assuming office, Irabor unveiled his command philosophy called PEARL, which stands for:
- Professional
- Effective
- Agile
- Result-oriented
- Loyal to constituted authority
This philosophy provided a clear roadmap for the military’s operations and became the guiding principle for all personnel. It emphasized professionalism, effectiveness in operations, agility in responding to threats, results-driven approach, and unwavering loyalty to democratic institutions.
Strategic Vision
Irabor articulated his vision for the Armed Forces as “To foster a Professional Armed Forces capable of effectively meeting constitutional imperatives.” This vision guided his leadership and the military’s operations during his tenure.
Key Achievements as CDS
Counter-Terrorism Success
Under Irabor’s leadership, the Nigerian military recorded significant successes against terrorist groups. The improved military operations led to the mass surrender of over 100,000 Boko Haram fighters, including women and children, in the Northeast region.
Infrastructure Development
He initiated and supported the development of military infrastructure, including plans for a world-class military hospital patterned after the Walter Reed Military Hospital in the United States, designed to serve both active and retired military personnel as well as civilians.
Mental Health Initiative
Recognizing the psychological toll of combat on soldiers, Irabor supported the establishment of the Armed Forces Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Centre in Abuja. This initiative, championed by his wife through DEPOWA, was the first of its kind in Africa.
Democratic Governance
Throughout his tenure, Irabor maintained the military’s apolitical stance, especially during the 2023 general elections. He consistently assured Nigerians that the military would remain professional and would not interfere in the electoral process, supporting the police in maintaining security without compromising democratic principles.
Gender Policy Development
He authored and implemented a gender policy for the Armed Forces, promoting inclusivity and equal opportunities within the military structure.
International Relations
Irabor built strong relationships between the Nigerian Armed Forces and military organizations in other countries, particularly with Niger Republic and Chad, enhancing regional security cooperation.
Awards and Honours as CDS
In October 2022, President Muhammadu Buhari conferred on General Irabor the national honour of Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic (CFR), recognizing his exceptional service to the nation.
Military Career Timeline & Major Milestones
Year | Rank/Position | Significance |
---|---|---|
1983 | Cadet, NDA (34 Regular Course) | Admission to Nigerian Defence Academy |
1986 | Second Lieutenant | Commissioned into Signals Corps |
1995 | Junior Staff Course Graduate | AFCSC, Jaji |
2000-2001 | Senior Staff Course Graduate | Ghana Armed Forces Staff College |
2010 | National Defence College Graduate | Bangladesh |
2012, 2017 | Harvard Kennedy School | Executive education programs |
Various | Commander, 53 Signals Brigade | Brigade command |
Various | Principal Staff Officer to COAS | Staff appointment |
Various | Coordinator, Nigerian Army Aviation | Aviation development |
2016-2017 | Theatre Commander, Operation Lafiya Dole | Counter-insurgency success |
2017-2018 | Force Commander, MNJTF | Regional security coordination |
2019-2020 | CDTOP, Defence HQ | Training and operations oversight |
2020-2021 | Commander, TRADOC | Doctrine development |
January 26, 2021 | Chief of Defence Staff | Appointed 17th CDS |
October 2022 | Commander of the Federal Republic (CFR) | National honour |
June 19, 2023 | Retirement | End of 37-year military career |
June 30, 2023 | Pullout Ceremony | Military farewell honours |
Personal Life: Wife and Family
Marriage to Victoria Irabor
General Lucky Irabor is happily married to Barrister Victoria Anwuli Irabor, a lawyer who became a prominent figure in her own right as the President of the Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association (DEPOWA).
Mrs. Victoria Irabor assumed office as the fourteenth President of DEPOWA when her husband became Chief of Defence Staff. As DEPOWA President, she championed several humanitarian initiatives and social welfare programs for military families.
Victoria Irabor’s Achievements
DEPOWA Leadership
Under Victoria’s leadership, DEPOWA achieved consultative status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), allowing the organization to participate actively in the UN system and its global Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) agenda.
PTSD Centre Initiative
One of her most significant contributions was championing the establishment of the Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Centre in Abuja for the Armed Forces of Nigeria. This groundbreaking facility, the first of its kind in Africa, was supported by former First Lady Aisha Buhari and has continued to receive accolades both locally and globally.
Victoria authored a memoir titled “The Journey of a Military Wife,” which chronicles her experiences navigating military life, from her early days as a young lawyer turned military wife to her leadership position as DEPOWA President. The book offers insights into the challenges and rewards of being a military spouse and has been widely acclaimed.
Children and Family Life
The couple is blessed with two children, a son and a daughter. While General Irabor has maintained privacy regarding his children’s identities, it is known that they have upheld the family’s values of discipline and integrity.
Family Values
At his homecoming ceremony in Delta State in July 2023, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and other dignitaries praised Mrs. Victoria for the discipline with which she managed the home front while the general was in the field of battle. Her role in maintaining family stability was recognized as crucial to her husband’s success in his military career.
Public Display of Affection
During his homecoming ceremony in Agbor, General Irabor demonstrated his appreciation for his wife when he walked back to help her up the rostrum for his speech, a gesture that drew cheers from the crowd and symbolized their strong partnership.
Honours, Awards and Recognition
Throughout his illustrious military career, General Lucky Irabor received numerous honours, awards, and commendations recognizing his exceptional service to Nigeria.
Military Awards and Decorations
Service Stars
- Forces Service Star (FSS)
- Meritorious Service Star (MSS)
- Distinguished Service Star (DSS)
- Grand Service Star (GSS)
Operational Medals
- Command Medal
- Field Command Medal (FCM)
Peacekeeping Medals
General Irabor participated in international peacekeeping operations and was awarded the following medals:
- ECOWAS Monitoring Group (ECOMOG) medals for operations in Sierra Leone and Liberia
- United Nations Mission in Sierra Leone (UNAMSIL) medal
- United Nations Mission in Liberia (UNMIL) medal
- Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) medal
National Honours
Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic (CFR)
In October 2022, President Muhammadu Buhari conferred on General Irabor the prestigious national honour of Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic (CFR), one of Nigeria’s highest civilian honours.
Other Post-Nominal Titles
- psc – Passed Staff College
- NAM – National Award Medal
- ndc – National Defence College
- FCMH – Fellow, College of Military Healthcare
Recognition and Commendations
Book Publication
In recognition of his achievements, a book titled “General LEO Irabor: The Pearl of Defense” was published in his honour. The 119-page book, authored by Mahmud Abdulsalam, chronicles his capacity, achievements, and leadership qualities across 33 articles under six chapters.
Regimental Dinner Honours
In December 2023, the Nigerian Army hosted a regimental dinner and awards ceremony for General Irabor alongside 112 other retired generals, honouring them for their 35 years of meritorious service to the nation.
Retirement and Life After Military Service
Retirement Announcement
General Lucky Irabor retired from active military service on June 19, 2023, following President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s appointment of new service chiefs. His retirement came after 37 years of distinguished service to the Nigerian Armed Forces.
Pullout Ceremony
On June 30, 2023, a formal pullout ceremony was held at Mogadishu Cantonment in Abuja to honour the former Chief of Defence Staff. The ceremony, attended by past Chiefs of Defence, Army, Navy, and Air Staff, featured a march past and other military traditions.
Farewell Speech
In his farewell address, General Irabor expressed pride in leaving the armed forces stronger and more capable of tackling adversaries than when he assumed command. He urged Nigerian citizens to appreciate and support the military, emphasizing that they are “a beacon of hope, strength, and resilience in a complex world.”
Homecoming in Delta State
In July 2023, the Ika Nation organized a rousing homecoming ceremony for General Irabor at the Public Field in Agbor, Delta State. The event drew dignitaries from across Nigeria, including political leaders, traditional rulers, and military personnel.
Notable Attendees
The ceremony was attended by:
- Senator Ifeanyi Okowa (former Delta State Governor)
- Governor Sheriff Oborevwori
- Prince Nduka Obiagbena
- General CG Musa (Irabor’s successor) and his wife
- Traditional rulers from the Ika Nation
Recognition from His Community
During the homecoming, speakers praised General Irabor’s service to the nation and commended the Ika Nation for the unity displayed in organizing the event. The ceremony celebrated not just his military achievements but also his character as a forthright soldier and gentleman officer.
Post-Retirement Activities
Political Considerations
At the regimental dinner in December 2023, Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru, encouraged General Irabor and other retired generals to consider joining politics, suggesting that their discipline and love of country would benefit the political system.
Continued Influence
Even in retirement, General Irabor remains a respected voice on national security matters. His PEARL philosophy continues to guide military operations, and his emphasis on professionalism and democratic values remains relevant.
Net Worth and Financial Profile
General Lucky Irabor’s exact net worth has not been publicly disclosed. As a retired military officer who served at the highest level of the Nigerian Armed Forces, his income was primarily derived from his military salary and benefits.
Military Compensation
As Chief of Defence Staff, Irabor was entitled to the salary and benefits associated with the position, which is among the highest-paid positions in the Nigerian military. However, specific figures regarding his earnings have not been made public.
Retirement Benefits
Upon retirement after 37 years of service, General Irabor is entitled to military pension and retirement benefits as provided by Nigerian law for retired military officers of his rank.
Assets and Properties
While specific details about his personal assets and properties are not publicly available, it is customary for senior military officers to own homes and other properties acquired during their years of service.
Controversies
In June 2023, there were media reports about an alleged employment matter involving his wife at the Nigerian Security Printing & Minting Plc (NSPM). However, these claims have not been independently verified, and General Irabor maintained his reputation for integrity throughout his career.
Legacy and Impact on Nigerian Military
General Lucky Irabor’s impact on the Nigerian military and national security extends far beyond his retirement. His legacy is characterized by several enduring contributions.
The PEARL Legacy
The PEARL philosophy introduced by General Irabor has become an integral part of Nigerian military doctrine. Future generations of soldiers will continue to reference this philosophy as a guide for professional conduct and operational excellence.
Counter-Terrorism Success
His leadership in the fight against Boko Haram, particularly during his time as Theatre Commander of Operation Lafiya Dole, resulted in significant territorial gains and the degradation of terrorist capabilities in the Northeast. The mass surrender of over 100,000 insurgents under his watch as CDS represents one of the most significant achievements in Nigeria’s counter-terrorism efforts.
Military Professionalism
Irabor’s consistent emphasis on professionalism, political neutrality, and respect for democratic institutions has strengthened civil-military relations in Nigeria. His assurance that the military would not interfere in the 2023 elections helped maintain public confidence in democratic processes.
Mental Health Advocacy
His support for the establishment of the PTSD Centre represents a paradigm shift in how the Nigerian military addresses the mental health needs of soldiers. This initiative will benefit countless service members for years to come.
Training and Doctrine Development
Through his various positions, particularly as Commander of TRADOC and CDTOP, Irabor influenced military training standards and doctrinal development that will shape the Nigerian Armed Forces for decades.
Regional Security Cooperation
His work as Force Commander of the MNJTF strengthened regional security cooperation in the Lake Chad Basin, establishing frameworks for multinational collaboration that continue to be effective.
Inspiration to Future Generations
General Irabor’s rise from a young cadet at the Nigerian Defence Academy to Chief of Defence Staff serves as an inspiration to young Nigerians considering military careers. His story demonstrates that dedication, continuous learning, and integrity can lead to the highest achievements.
Interesting Facts About Lucky Irabor
- The LEO Nickname: General Irabor is often referred to as “General LEO Irabor,” with LEO being an acronym derived from his full name: Lucky Eluonye Onyenuchea.
- Engineering Background: He holds a bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering from the Nigerian Defence Academy, which contributed to his assignment in the Signals Corps, a technical branch of the army.
- Harvard Education: He is among the few Nigerian military officers who have attended the prestigious Harvard Kennedy School of Government and Executive Education, attending programs in both 2012 and 2017.
- Multiple Master’s Degrees: Beyond his military training, he holds two Master’s degrees from international institutions – the University of Ghana and Bangladesh University of Professionals.
- 37 Years of Service: His military career spanned exactly 37 years from his commission in 1986 to his retirement in 2023, without any controversy or blemish.
- Youngest CDS Appointees: At 55 years old when appointed Chief of Defence Staff in 2021, he was among the younger appointees to this position in recent Nigerian history.
- Family Military Tradition: Growing up in a military family and attending Nigerian Military School, Zaria, from his youth, he was immersed in military culture from an early age.
- Boko Haram’s Nemesis: During his time as Theatre Commander of Operation Lafiya Dole, he was considered Boko Haram’s nemesis due to his courage and determination in prosecuting the war against the insurgents.
- International Peacekeeper: He served in peacekeeping missions in both Sierra Leone and Liberia under ECOMOG, demonstrating Nigeria’s commitment to regional peace and security.
- Literary Honour: A book was published in his honour while he was still in active service, titled “General LEO Irabor: The Pearl of Defense,” documenting his achievements and leadership qualities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How old is Lucky Irabor?
General Lucky Irabor was born on October 5, 1965, making him 60 years old as of 2025.
2. Who is Lucky Irabor’s wife?
Lucky Irabor is married to Barrister Victoria Anwuli Irabor, a lawyer and former President of the Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association (DEPOWA), and they have two children together.
3. What is the PEARL philosophy?
PEARL is General Irabor’s command philosophy representing a Nigerian military that is Professional, Effective, Agile, Result-oriented, and Loyal to constituted authority, which served as the guiding principle for military operations during his tenure as Chief of Defence Staff.
4. When did Lucky Irabor retire from the military?
General Lucky Irabor retired from active military service on June 19, 2023, after 37 years of service, following President Bola Tinubu’s appointment of new service chiefs.
5. What is Lucky Irabor’s state of origin?
General Lucky Irabor hails from Aliokpu Agbor in Ika South Local Government Area of Delta State, Nigeria, and belongs to the Igbo ethnic group.
6. What was Lucky Irabor’s role in fighting Boko Haram?
As Theatre Commander of Operation Lafiya Dole, Irabor led successful military operations that resulted in the clearance of Sambisa Forest, capture of Alargano Forest (Boko Haram’s spiritual base), and forced the release of 103 Chibok girls, significantly degrading the terrorist group’s capabilities.
7. What national honour did Lucky Irabor receive?
In October 2022, President Muhammadu Buhari conferred on General Irabor the national honour of Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic (CFR), one of Nigeria’s highest civilian honours.
8. Where did Lucky Irabor study?
He attended Nigerian Military School Zaria, graduated from Nigerian Defence Academy with a degree in Electrical Engineering, earned Master’s degrees from University of Ghana and Bangladesh University of Professionals, and attended Harvard Kennedy School of Government and Executive Education.
Conclusion
General Lucky Eluonye Onyenuchea Irabor’s life story represents the pinnacle of military excellence, leadership, and dedication to national service. From his humble beginnings in Agbor, Delta State, to becoming Nigeria’s 17th Chief of Defence Staff, his journey embodies the values of hard work, continuous learning, and unwavering commitment to duty.
His 37-year military career was marked by significant achievements in counter-terrorism operations, particularly his decisive leadership in Operation Lafiya Dole and the Multinational Joint Task Force. The PEARL philosophy he introduced has become a lasting legacy that continues to guide the Nigerian Armed Forces, emphasizing professionalism, effectiveness, agility, results orientation, and loyalty to democratic institutions.
Beyond his military accomplishments, General Irabor’s commitment to the mental health of soldiers through the PTSD Centre initiative, his support for democratic governance during the 2023 elections, and his emphasis on regional security cooperation demonstrate a leader who understood that military power must be balanced with humanitarian concerns and democratic values.
His marriage to Barrister Victoria Irabor represents a partnership that supported not just his career but also contributed to the welfare of military families through DEPOWA’s initiatives. Together, they exemplify service to nation and community.
As he enjoys retirement, General Irabor leaves behind a military that is stronger, more professional, and better equipped to face Nigeria’s security challenges. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations of military officers and remind Nigerians of the importance of dedicated public service, integrity, and unwavering commitment to national security and democratic values.