Vice Admiral Awwal Zubairu Gambo (Rtd), former Chief of the Naval Staff, has paid a heartfelt tribute to the late former President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, describing him as a towering figure in Nigeria’s history and a leader of unshakable integrity, discipline, and patriotism.
In his tribute released on Sunday, July 14, 2025, Gambo, who served as the 21st Indigenous Chief of the Naval Staff from 2021 to 2023, expressed deep sorrow over Buhari’s death and extended prayers for the repose of his soul. He described the former president as not only a military commander but also a father figure who inspired countless lives through his honesty, simplicity, and unwavering commitment to Nigeria’s progress.
“His passing is not only a monumental loss to his family, but to the entire nation he served with unmatched devotion,” Gambo said.
Reflecting on his personal relationship with the late president, Gambo recalled the honour of being appointed by Buhari as Chief of the Naval Staff in January 2021. He also fondly remembered hosting Buhari at the Presidential Fleet Review in Lagos—a symbolic event that became Buhari’s last major military engagement before leaving office in 2023.
“He gave us the space and confidence to fulfil our mandate. His leadership was firm but fair, and his investment in the military—both in personnel welfare and capacity building—was evident throughout his tenure,” Gambo said.
He praised Buhari’s austere lifestyle, transparent governance, and steadfast war against corruption, describing these traits as the hallmarks of his presidency. Gambo also noted that Buhari’s compassion for the poor and his efforts to uplift the underprivileged stood out both in policy and in personal conduct.
The retired Naval Chief shared a touching personal moment, recounting how his late mother—an ardent admirer of Buhari—was overjoyed when he was appointed naval chief. One of her most cherished moments, he said, was meeting Buhari after he left office.
Gambo emphasized that while Buhari may be physically gone, his legacy endures in the institutions he reformed, the lives he touched, and the values he upheld.
“His integrity was his enduring signature. Though his physical presence is no longer with us, his spirit lives on. His legacy is a light that will never fade, Insha Allah,” he stated.
He concluded the tribute by praying for President Buhari’s soul to be granted Aljannah Firdaus and extended condolences to his family and all Nigerians mourning the loss of the former leader.
- Insecurity: Kano deploys 2,000 neighbourhood watch corps - December 23, 2025
- INEC schedules Rivers by-elections for February 2026 - December 23, 2025
- PDP leadership: INEC rejects Turaki-led NWC, cites valid court judgements - December 23, 2025
