Lucky Irabor: Professional Development Of The Armed Forces Is Hampered By Available Resources
Former Chief of Defence Staff, General Lucky Irabor (Rtd), has said limited resources remain a major obstacle to the professional development of Nigeria’s armed forces, despite the Federal Government’s plans to expand the Nigerian Army and recruit more personnel.
Speaking during an interview on ARISE NEWS on Wednesday, Irabor said the military’s growth and operational effectiveness depend not only on manpower but also on sustained investment in personnel, equipment and logistics.
He said while Nigeria requires more troops to address its security challenges, the country’s financial capacity determines what can realistically be achieved.
“What you need is different from what is possible,” he said.
Irabor added, “The development of the armed forces, the professional development of the armed forces, is in large part hampered by the available resources, you know, that such professionals desire, if you like, the intention to, you know, optimize the combat efficiency of the armed forces and hire.”
He said building a world-class military comes with significant financial implications.
“So, if you have the desire to have a first-tier armed forces in terms of professional competencies, then, of course, there are cost implications to that.”
The retired general said the government’s decision to recruit additional soldiers should be viewed within the limits of available resources.
“The government is always aware, and that’s the reason why they keep increasing the number of recruitments. And so, that, for me, is the way to go.”
Irabor said the armed forces should continue expanding until they are close to their approved establishment in both personnel and equipment.
“Until such a time, we have, you know, based on our team of organization and equipment, we’re able to reach at least 75, 80 percent of the establishment in terms of personnel and equipment, which is such a point that you cannot say, look, you will be able to contend with any issue within a given time frame as might be directed by the commander-in-chief.”
He also stressed that investment in modern military technology would depend on government funding.
“On the issue of, you know, other combat enablers, which you talked about, technology, you know, drones and all that, that, again, is dependent on, you know, the resources that are valuable to government.”
Irabor maintained that expanding the armed forces remains the right approach but said adequate funding would determine how quickly Nigeria can build a more capable military.
Faridah Abdulkadiri
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