Nigeria's former top military officer, General Lucky Irabor (retd.), has categorically dismissed widespread allegations that repentant members of the Boko Haram terrorist group and bandits are being secretly absorbed into the nation's armed forces.
"It Is Impossible," Says Former Defence Chief
Speaking during an interview on Channels Television's Politics Today programme on Monday, December 2, 2025, the ex-Chief of Defence Staff described the claims as baseless and unfeasible within the existing military framework. General Irabor expressed bewilderment at the persistence of the narrative, questioning its origin.
"It has always been a burden for me where we got this impression from. How can they be recruited? This does not exist," he stated emphatically.
Leveraging his extensive frontline experience, Irabor highlighted his previous command roles to underscore his authority on the subject. Before his appointment as CDS, he served as the Theatre Commander of Operation Lafiya Dole and later as the Force Commander of the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF).
Rigorous Vetting Process Blocks Infiltration
The retired general provided a crucial insight into the military's recruitment protocol, which he said makes such infiltration unthinkable. He explained that the process involves stringent background checks that extend to the candidate's local community.
"It is impossible. Besides, you can’t come into the military if those in your local government have not actually sanctioned you," Irabor clarified, emphasizing the community-based verification layer.
Operation Safe Corridor: Reintegration, Not Recruitment
Addressing the public confusion, Irabor delineated the precise mandate of the government's Operation Safe Corridor programme. He clarified that the initiative is strictly designed for the deradicalisation and subsequent reintegration of low-risk, surrendered insurgents back into civilian society, not into any security force.
"Operation Safe Corridor deals with deradicalisation and reintegration. It is not a pathway into the armed forces," he stated, aiming to correct a significant misconception.
While acknowledging ongoing security challenges, the former CDS defended the military's competence, attributing setbacks to broader systemic issues rather than institutional failure. He identified improvements in manpower, equipment, and strategy as critical areas for enhancing national security operations.
His comments arrive amid sustained public debate over Nigeria's handling of repentant militants and the persistent insecurity, particularly in the North-East region, where the Federal Government has intensified deradicalisation efforts.
