Nigeria is in mourning following the death of its former President and elder statesman, His Excellency Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, a figure widely celebrated for his integrity, discipline, and unwavering patriotism.
The late president received a heartfelt tribute from Vice Admiral Awwal Zubairu Gambo (Rtd), CFR, Nigeria’s 21st Indigenous Chief of Naval Staff, who served between 2021 and 2023 under Buhari’s administration.
In a solemn statement, Vice Admiral Gambo described the former president as a “towering figure in our national history,” praising his legacy as a soldier, a statesman, and a steadfast leader who championed honesty and service above self.
“His journey through Nigeria’s turbulent political and security landscape remains a testament to his resilience, fortitude and selfless patriotism,” Gambo noted, recalling his interactions with Buhari and highlighting the president’s final military assignment during the Presidential Fleet Review in Lagos, just days before leaving office.
Gambo expressed personal gratitude for the opportunity to lead the Nigerian Navy, crediting Buhari’s leadership for empowering military chiefs and transforming defence infrastructure.
He reflected on the president’s hands-off yet supportive approach: “Firm yet fair, deeply principled… he gave us space and confidence to fulfil our mandate.”
On a personal note, Gambo shared the admiration felt by his mother for Buhari, describing her emotional visit to the former president after he stepped down. “She joins the millions of people who now deeply mourn him,” he wrote.
Buhari’s presidency is remembered for its focus on anti-corruption efforts, poverty alleviation, military modernisation, and transparent governance.
His disciplined lifestyle and commitment to the underserved marked him as one of the country’s most consequential leaders.
Gambo concluded his tribute with prayers: “May Almighty Allah (SWT) grant him Aljannah Firdaus… His legacy is a light that will never fade.”
As the nation continues to grieve, tributes are expected to pour in from across the political, military and civic landscape, underscoring the former president’s enduring impact on Nigeria’s history.
