The Prayer and Support for Nigerian Armed Forces and Other Security Agencies has celebrated the 60th birthday of Nigeria’s 21st indigenous Chief of Naval Staff,Vice Admiral Awwal Zubairu Gambo (retd.), commending his contributions to national security and maritime development.
In a statement, the Convener of the group, Mary Abayomi-Fatile, described Gambo as a distinguished naval officer whose career was marked by discipline, professionalism, and dedication to duty.
She noted that his tenure as Chief of Naval Staff from January 2021 to June 2023 represented a defining period in the advancement of Nigeria’s maritime security architecture, citing his strategic leadership and operational achievements.
According to the group, Gambo, an accomplished underwater warfare specialist, amassed over three decades of service across various operational theatres, including deployments aboard Nigerian Navy vessels such as NNS Ambe, NNS Damisa, and NNS Ayam.
He also served in key strategic roles, including Defence Attaché in Luanda, Angola, as well as positions at the Office of the National Security Adviser, Defence Headquarters, and Defence Space Administration.
The statement highlighted that under his leadership, the Nigerian Navy embarked on an extensive fleet recapitalisation programme, which saw the acquisition of several platforms, including the Landing Ship Tank NNS KADA and the Hydrographic Survey Vessel NNS LANA.
Other milestones recorded during his tenure included the construction of additional Seaward Defence Boats, procurement of offshore patrol vessels, acquisition of AW-109SP helicopters, and the refurbishment plan for Nigeria’s flagship, NNS ARADU.
The group further noted that Gambo’s tenure recorded significant operational gains, particularly in maritime security. It cited Nigeria’s removal from the International Maritime Bureau’s list of piracy-prone countries in 2022 as a major achievement.
It also referenced the launch of Operation Dakatar Da Barawo, a large-scale anti-crude oil theft initiative that led to the seizure of large quantities of stolen crude oil and refined products valued at over N71 billion within its first year.
In addition, the statement said his administration strengthened maritime domain awareness through the deployment of advanced surveillance systems such as the Falcon Eye Alignment project, while also promoting local content in naval shipbuilding and maintenance.
On regional cooperation, the group credited Gambo with spearheading efforts to enhance security in the Gulf of Guinea, including hosting meetings of Heads of Navies and Coastguards in Abuja and Lagos in 2023.
It added that his leadership earned commendation from Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who praised his role in safeguarding Nigeria’s territorial waters.
The organisation said the celebration of his 60th birthday was not only to mark the milestone but also to honour a legacy of sacrifice, courage, and commitment to national service.
It prayed for continued good health, wisdom, and relevance for the retired naval chief, noting that his example remains a source of inspiration to officers and personnel across the Armed Forces.
