PRESIDENT TINUBU HAILS EX-CHIEF OF NAVAL STAFF, VICE ADMIRAL AWWAL ZUBAIRU GAMBO, ON HIS 60TH BIRTHDAY

April 21, 2026 on Latest News, Press Releases

President Bola Tinubu extends warm congratulations to retired Vice Admiral Awwal Zubairu Gambo, CFR, on his 60th birthday on April 22, commending his outstanding contributions to the armed forces and the country.

The President joins family, friends and associates in celebrating a distinguished naval officer whose career in the Nigerian Navy was marked by discipline, professionalism, and exemplary service.

Vice Admiral Gambo was the 21st indigenous Chief of Naval Staff. He served from 2021 to 2023.

During his military career, which spanned over three decades, the Underwater Warfare Specialist served in many capacities, including aboard NNS Ambe, NNS Damisa, NNS Ayam, and as Nigeria’s Defence Attaché in Luanda, Angola.

He also served as Naval Assistant to the Chief of Naval Staff; Deputy Director and Acting Director, Defence Affairs, Office of National Security Adviser (ONSA); Director, Research and Rescue, Defence Headquarters; and Director, Procurement, Defence Space Administration, among others.

President Tinubu particularly highlights and lauds Vice Admiral Gambo’s leadership of the Navy during a critical period in Nigeria’s maritime security.

Under Gambo’s stewardship, Nigeria recorded significant gains in securing its maritime domain, including the country’s exit from the International Maritime Bureau’s list of piracy-prone countries in 2022. This achievement remains a key milestone in the nation’s security history.

The President notes with appreciation Gambo’s unwavering patriotism, courage, and commitment to duty, describing him as a worthy example of service to the nation.

President Tinubu prays that Almighty Allah will grant him continued good health, strength, and more years of fulfilment and meaningful contributions to national development.

Bayo Onanuga

Special Adviser to the President

(Information & Strategy)

April 21, 2026