Retired Vice Admiral Awwal Zubairu Gambo, former Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Nigeria\u2019s former President and Head of State, Muhammadu Buhari, who died on Sunday at a hospital in London.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Gambo, who led the Nigerian Navy from 2021 to 2023, described Buhari’s death as a profound loss not only to his immediate family but also to the entire nation, which he served with unwavering devotion and integrity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In a heartfelt tribute, the former naval chief recalled Buhari as a soldier of remarkable discipline and courage, and a statesman whose leadership exemplified the highest standards of public service.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cPresident Buhari embodied an incorruptible spirit and resolute commitment to the Nigerian project,\u201d Gambo said. \u201cAs Commander-in-Chief, he demonstrated humility, personal sacrifice, and a relentless drive for national progress. His journey through Nigeria\u2019s turbulent political and security terrain speaks to a legacy of resilience, fortitude, and patriotism.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Gambo expressed personal gratitude to the late President for the trust reposed in him with his appointment as Chief of Naval Staff in January 2021.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cThat role, which I held until his administration ended in 2023, remains one of the greatest honours of my life,\u201d he stated. \u201cI recall with pride the privilege of hosting him during the Presidential Fleet Review in Lagos his final major military engagement before leaving office. That occasion marked not just a ceremonial event, but a celebration of the transformation of the Nigerian Navy under his leadership.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Reflecting on their working relationship, Gambo said, \u201cTo me, he was more than a Commander-in-Chief. He was a father figure principled, firm but fair, and deeply committed to the professional growth and welfare of those who served under him.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He noted that President Buhari’s impact extended beyond policy. \u201cIn his quiet and unassuming manner\u2014never seeking praise\u2014he offered unwavering support to the service chiefs. He ensured the military was equipped with modern platforms and empowered us with the freedom and confidence to carry out our duties.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
According to Gambo, President Buhari\u2019s legacy is anchored in integrity. \u201cIn a world where many are swayed by fleeting interests, he stood firm guided by simplicity, sincerity, and a deep love for Nigeria,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He also highlighted Buhari\u2019s compassion for the poor and marginalized, reflected both in his governance and personal conduct. \u201cHis austere lifestyle and transparent leadership raised the bar and continue to inspire a new generation.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
On a personal note, Gambo shared the admiration his late mother had for Buhari. \u201cThere was no greater admirer of him than my mother. Her joy knew no bounds when I was appointed Naval Chief by a President she respected deeply. Visiting him after he left office was one of the highlights of her life, and she too joins the millions of Nigerians mourning his passing.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Gambo concluded with a prayer:
\u201cThough he is no longer with us physically, his spirit endures in the institutions he strengthened, the reforms he initiated, and the countless lives he touched. His legacy will shine as a permanent light in our national history. As we bid him farewell, I pray that Almighty Allah (SWT) grants him Aljannah Firdaus and grants strength to his family and all of us who mourn a truly great patriot.\u201d<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
Retired Vice Admiral Awwal Zubairu Gambo, former Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Nigeria\u2019s former President and Head of State, Muhammadu Buhari,…<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":11555,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_crdt_document":"","_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-11553","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-pages"],"yoast_head":"\n