Awwal Zubairu Gambo biography chronicles Nigeria’s 21st Chief of Naval Staff who transformed maritime security through Operation Dakatar Da Barawo.

Who is Awwal Zubairu Gambo?

Vice Admiral Awwal Zubairu Gambo CFR (rtd) is a retired Nigerian Navy officer who served as the 21st Chief of the Naval Staff of Nigeria from 26 January 2021 to June 2023.

The Awwal Zubairu Gambo biography represents a distinguished military career spanning over three decades of service to Nigeria’s maritime defence. Born on 22 April 1966 in Nasarawa Local Government Area of Kano State, he rose through the ranks to become one of Nigeria’s most decorated naval officers.

During his tenure as Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Gambo implemented transformative initiatives that strengthened Nigeria’s maritime security. His most notable achievement was the launch of Operation Dakatar Da Barawo (meaning “Stop the Thief” in Hausa), described as the biggest anti-oil theft military operation in Nigerian history.

Admiral Gambo is an Underwater Warfare specialist with sub-specialisation in Intelligence. He holds a Master of Science degree in Transport Management (Logistics Option) from Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomosho. His military education includes courses at the Armed Forces Command and Staff College, Jaji, and the National Defence College in South Africa.

In October 2022, he was conferred with the national honour of Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic (CFR) by President Muhammadu Buhari, recognising his exceptional service to the nation.

He is married to Hajiya Nana Aisha Gambo, a businesswoman and philanthropist who served as the 21st President of the Naval Officers Wives Association (NOWA). Together, they have contributed significantly to Nigeria’s national development through military service and humanitarian work.

Awwal Zubairu Gambo Profile Summary

Personal Information	Details
Full Name	Awwal Zubairu Gambo
Date of Birth	22 April 1966
Age	59 years old (as of 2025)
Place of Birth	Nasarawa Local Government Area, Kano State
State of Origin	Kano State
Nationality	Nigerian
Religion	Islam
Occupation	Retired Naval Officer
Rank	Vice Admiral (Retired)
Position Held	21st Chief of the Naval Staff of Nigeria
Tenure	26 January 2021 – June 2023
Appointed By	President Muhammadu Buhari
Military Course	Nigerian Defence Academy, Regular Course 36
Commission Date	24 October 1989 (Sub-Lieutenant)
Specialisation	Underwater Warfare & Intelligence
Education	M.Sc. Transport Management (Logistics), Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (2009)
Wife	Hajiya Nana Aisha Gambo
Honours	CFR, psc, AM, GSS, ensp (RSA), MTM, MNIM, MUSNI, FCIS, FIIPS, FCAI
Years of Service	1984–2023 (39 years)
Retirement Year	2023
Professional Bodies	Nigerian Institute of Management (MNIM), International Institute of Professional Security (FIIPS)

Early Life and Family Background

Vice Admiral Awwal Zubairu Gambo was born on 22 April 1966 in Nasarawa Local Government Area of Kano State, Nigeria. He hails from Kano State in the North-Western part of Nigeria.

Childhood and Upbringing

Gambo grew up in Kano State, one of Nigeria’s most historically significant cities. Kano has a rich tradition of Islamic scholarship, commerce, and culture, which influenced his formative years.

Details about his parents and siblings remain largely private, as is common with many military officers who maintain strict privacy regarding family matters for security reasons.

Early Education

Gambo attended Gwagwarwa Special Primary School in Kano, where he obtained his First School Leaving Certificate. This foundational education set the stage for his academic and military pursuits.

For his secondary education, he proceeded to Rumfa College, Kano, one of the most prestigious secondary schools in Northern Nigeria. Rumfa College, established in 1966, has a reputation for academic excellence and has produced numerous distinguished Nigerians in various fields.

At Rumfa College, Gambo obtained his West African School Certificate in 1984. His performance qualified him for admission into the Nigerian Defence Academy, marking the beginning of his military career.

Military Education and Training

Nigerian Defence Academy

On 24 September 1984, at the age of 18, Awwal Zubairu Gambo enlisted into the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) as a member of the 36 Regular Course. The NDA, located in Kaduna, is Nigeria’s premier military university where future officers of the Nigerian Armed Forces are trained.

After five years of rigorous academic and military training, he was commissioned as a Sub-Lieutenant in the Nigerian Navy on 24 October 1989.

Professional Military Courses

Throughout his career, Vice Admiral Gambo attended numerous military courses both in Nigeria and internationally:

Naval Courses:

Command and Staff Courses:

International Training:

These courses equipped him with tactical, operational, and strategic knowledge essential for senior military leadership.

Academic Qualifications

Beyond military training, Vice Admiral Gambo pursued academic excellence:

Information Technology (1998):

Postgraduate Education (2008-2009):

Professional Certifications:

Military Career Progression

Early Service (1988-2000)

Midshipman and Junior Officer Roles:

During these early years, Gambo gained hands-on experience in naval operations, ship handling, and maritime warfare.

Mid-Career Advancement (2001-2010)

Command and Staff Positions:

His role as Naval Assistant to a former Chief of Naval Staff gave him invaluable exposure to the highest levels of naval administration and strategic decision-making.

Senior Appointments (2011-2020)

International and Strategic Roles:

His appointment as Director Procurement at the Defence Space Administration was his last position before his elevation to Chief of Naval Staff.

Appointment as Chief of Naval Staff

Historic Appointment

On 26 January 2021, President Muhammadu Buhari appointed Vice Admiral Awwal Zubairu Gambo as the 21st indigenous Chief of the Naval Staff of Nigeria. This appointment came at a critical time when Nigeria faced significant maritime security challenges, including crude oil theft, piracy, and other criminal activities in its territorial waters.

At 54 years old at the time of appointment, Admiral Gambo brought 37 years of naval experience to the position. His background in Intelligence and Underwater Warfare, combined with his strategic planning experience, positioned him uniquely to address Nigeria’s maritime security concerns.

Vision and Strategic Priorities

Upon assumption of office, Admiral Gambo articulated a clear vision for the Nigerian Navy. His strategic priorities included:

Major Achievements as Chief of Naval Staff

Operation Dakatar Da Barawo

Admiral Gambo’s most significant achievement was the launch of Operation Dakatar Da Barawo (meaning “Stop the Thief” in Hausa), described as the biggest anti-oil theft military operation in Nigerian history.

Scale of Operations:

Results in First Year:

This operation significantly disrupted the networks of oil thieves who had been costing Nigeria billions of naira in lost revenue.

Fleet Recapitalisation

New Vessels Commissioned:

NNS LANA: A new Hydrographic Survey Vessel, enhancing the Navy’s capability to conduct maritime surveys and chart Nigerian waters accurately.

NNS KADA: Nigeria’s newest warship at the time, strengthening the Navy’s combat capabilities.

Offshore Patrol Vessels: Admiral Gambo signed contracts for two high-endurance Offshore Patrol Vessels with Dearsan Shipyard of Turkey, enhancing long-range maritime patrol capabilities.

NNS ARADU Refit: He signed a Memorandum of Understanding for the refit and remodelling of NNS ARADU, Nigeria’s flagship vessel.

Presidential Fleet Review (2021)

Under Admiral Gambo’s watch, the first Presidential Fleet Review of the Nigerian Navy since 2010 was held in honour of President Muhammadu Buhari. During this event:

Falcon Eye Alignment System

One of the most technologically advanced projects commissioned during his tenure was the Falcon Eye Alignment, a state-of-the-art maritime surveillance and intelligence system. This system is considered one of the most sophisticated domain awareness systems in Africa, providing:

Collaboration and Partnerships

Admiral Gambo strengthened Nigeria’s maritime security through enhanced collaboration with:

Honours, Awards and Professional Memberships

National Honours

Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic (CFR): Conferred by President Muhammadu Buhari in October 2022, this is one of Nigeria’s highest national honours.

Military Awards and Decorations

Professional Memberships and Fellowships

Honorary Doctorate

In 2021, Admiral Gambo was awarded an Honorary Doctor of Science by IRSBACCOM, recognising his contributions to maritime security and national defence.

Personal Life: Marriage and Family

Wife: Hajiya Nana Aisha Gambo

Vice Admiral Awwal Zubairu Gambo is married to Hajiya Nana Aisha Gambo, an accomplished businesswoman and philanthropist in her own right.

About Hajiya Aisha Gambo:

Hajiya Aisha grew up in Warri, Delta State. She attended:

Business Ventures:

Hajiya Aisha is described as a “robust and shrewd businesswoman”. Her business interests include:

She began entrepreneurship at age 7 as a petty vendor, demonstrating early business acumen.

Naval Officers Wives Association (NOWA)

As wife of the Chief of Naval Staff, Hajiya Aisha automatically became the 21st President of the Naval Officers Wives Association (NOWA) on 27 February 2021.

Under her leadership, NOWA:

50th Birthday Celebration:

In 2021, Hajiya Aisha celebrated her 50th birthday in style, with entertainment provided by Nigerian celebrities including Bovi, Flavour, and Chike.

Family Privacy

Like many military families, the Gambos maintain privacy regarding their children and other family members. This is standard practice for security reasons in the Nigerian military community.

Career Milestones and Timeline

Year	Milestone/Position	Details
1966	Birth	Born 22 April in Nasarawa LGA, Kano State
1984	Secondary School Completion	Obtained WASC from Rumfa College, Kano
1984	NDA Enlistment	Joined Nigerian Defence Academy, Regular Course 36
1989	Commission	Commissioned Sub-Lieutenant, 24 October
1991-1992	Specialisation Training	Sub-Technical Course at NNS QUORRA
2000	Underwater Warfare Specialist	Completed Officers Long Course at NNS QUORRA
2003-2004	Senior Staff Course	Armed Forces Command and Staff College, Jaji
2008-2009	Postgraduate Studies	M.Sc. Transport Management, LAUTECH Ogbomosho
2011-2013	Defence Attaché	Pioneer Defence Attaché to Angola
2013-2014	Intelligence Leadership	Commander, Naval Intelligence School, Apapa
2017	Presidential Relief	Security Coordinator, North Eastern Nigeria Relief
2018-2021	Defence Space Administration	Director Procurement
26 January 2021	CNS Appointment	Appointed 21st Chief of Naval Staff
2021	Presidential Fleet Review	First since 2010, new ships inducted
2021	Operation Dakatar Da Barawo	Launched biggest anti-oil theft operation
October 2022	National Honour	Conferred with CFR by President Buhari
2023	Falcon Eye Commission	State-of-the-art maritime surveillance system
June 2023	Retirement	Retired as Vice Admiral after 39 years of service

Post-Retirement Activities

Retirement from Service

Vice Admiral Awwal Zubairu Gambo retired from the Nigerian Navy in June 2023 after reaching the statutory retirement age. His tenure as Chief of Naval Staff lasted approximately 29 months, during which he left an indelible mark on the Nigerian Navy.

Public Recognition

Groups such as “Prayer and Support for the Nigerian Armed Forces and other Security Agencies” have publicly applauded Admiral Gambo for his tenacity in building a “virile, forward-looking and responsive naval force, capable of safeguarding the nation’s maritime environment.”

The Abuja Land Controversy (November 2025)

The Disputed Plot

In November 2025, Vice Admiral Gambo (rtd) became embroiled in a public controversy involving a disputed plot of land in Abuja. The incident occurred on 11 November 2025 when FCT Minister Nyesom Wike visited Plot 1946, Buffer Transit Southern Park Way, Gaduwa District, owned by Admiral Gambo.

The Confrontation

Naval officers, reportedly acting on Admiral Gambo’s orders, confronted Minister Wike during his inspection. The officers:

Despite being physically blocked, Minister Wike attempted to enter with his security aides but eventually withdrew after making phone calls.

The Allegations

Minister Wike’s Claims:

Wike’s Statement: “I don’t understand how somebody who holds that position and he said that he has a problem cannot approach my office… simply because he’s a military man, he could use that to intimidate Nigerians. I’m not one of those kinds of persons who will succumb to blackmail or intimidation.”

Public Reaction

The incident sparked widespread public debate:

Critics’ View: Opinion writers like Kelvin Adegbenga described it as “A Disgraceful Abuse Of Power By Former Naval Chief Awwal Gambo”, arguing that:

Defence Perspective: Others argued that:

Current Status

As of November 2025, the matter remains under scrutiny, with investigations ongoing to determine the legal ownership and development rights for the disputed property.

Awwal Zubairu Gambo Biography: Legacy and Impact

Transformation of Nigerian Navy

Vice Admiral Gambo’s tenure as Chief of Naval Staff is characterised by significant transformation:

Fleet Modernisation: The acquisition of new vessels and equipment modernised an ageing fleet.

Technological Advancement: The Falcon Eye system brought Nigeria’s maritime surveillance into the 21st century.

Operational Success: Operation Dakatar Da Barawo demonstrated that determined action could significantly reduce maritime crime.

International Partnerships: Strengthened relationships with regional and international maritime security organisations.

Economic Impact

By combating crude oil theft, Admiral Gambo’s operations helped:

Military Leadership

His leadership style was characterised by:

Controversies and Criticisms

Like many public figures, Admiral Gambo has faced criticisms:

However, supporters argue that his overall contribution to national security far outweighs any controversies.

Conclusion

The Awwal Zubairu Gambo biography represents a distinguished career of naval service spanning nearly four decades. From his enlistment as a young cadet at the Nigerian Defence Academy in 1984 to his retirement as Vice Admiral in 2023, he dedicated his life to protecting Nigeria’s maritime interests.

As the 21st Chief of the Naval Staff, Admiral Gambo confronted Nigeria’s maritime security challenges with determination and strategic vision. His launch of Operation Dakatar Da Barawo stands as perhaps the most aggressive campaign against crude oil theft in Nigerian history, recovering over ₦71 billion worth of stolen petroleum products in its first year alone.

His fleet recapitalisation programme brought new vessels, helicopters, and the sophisticated Falcon Eye surveillance system to the Nigerian Navy, modernising capabilities that had lagged for years. The Presidential Fleet Review of 2021 showcased these achievements to the nation and demonstrated renewed commitment to maritime security.

Together with his wife, Hajiya Nana Aisha Gambo, he contributed not only through military service but also through humanitarian work. Her leadership of NOWA complemented his naval command, addressing welfare issues and community development.

The November 2025 land controversy has cast a shadow on his post-retirement years, raising questions about the conduct of retired military officers. The outcome of that dispute will form part of how history ultimately judges his legacy.

Nevertheless, his contributions to Nigeria’s maritime security remain significant. At 59 years old, Vice Admiral Awwal Zubairu Gambo (rtd) leaves behind a Nigerian Navy more capable, better equipped, and more operationally effective than he found it. His tenure demonstrated that with proper leadership, resources, and commitment, Nigeria’s maritime challenges can be confronted successfully.

FAQs About Awwal Zubairu Gambo Biography

Q1: How old is Awwal Zubairu Gambo?
Awwal Zubairu Gambo was born on 22 April 1966, making him 59 years old as of 2025.

Q2: When did Awwal Zubairu Gambo serve as Chief of Naval Staff?
He served as the 21st Chief of Naval Staff of Nigeria from 26 January 2021 to June 2023, a tenure of approximately 29 months.

Q3: What is Operation Dakatar Da Barawo?
Operation Dakatar Da Barawo (meaning “Stop the Thief” in Hausa) was the biggest anti-oil theft military operation in Nigerian history, launched by Admiral Gambo. It deployed 40 warships, 200 gunboats, and 5 helicopters, recovering over ₦71 billion worth of stolen petroleum products in its first year.

Q4: Who is Awwal Zubairu Gambo’s wife?
Admiral Gambo is married to Hajiya Nana Aisha Gambo, a businesswoman and philanthropist who served as the 21st President of the Naval Officers Wives Association (NOWA).

Q5: What honours has Awwal Zubairu Gambo received?
He received the Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic (CFR) in October 2022, along with military decorations including Admiralty Medal (AM), General Service Star (GSS), and ECOMOG Peacekeeping Medal. He also holds an Honorary Doctor of Science.

Q6: What is Admiral Gambo’s educational background?
He attended Gwagwarwa Special Primary School and Rumfa College, Kano. He graduated from the Nigerian Defence Academy in 1989 and holds an M.Sc. in Transport Management (Logistics) from Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomosho (2009).

Q7: What was the controversy involving Admiral Gambo in November 2025?
In November 2025, a dispute arose over Plot 1946 in Gaduwa District, Abuja, allegedly owned by Admiral Gambo. FCT Minister Nyesom Wike accused him of illegal development without proper documentation, leading to a confrontation between naval officers and FCT officials.

Q8: What is Admiral Gambo’s military specialisation?
He is an Underwater Warfare specialist with sub-specialisation in Intelligence, having completed the Officers Long Course at NNS QUORRA in 2000.

Q9: How long did Admiral Gambo serve in the Nigerian Navy?
He served in the Nigerian Navy for 39 years, from his enlistment in 1984 to his retirement in 2023.

Q10: What were Admiral Gambo’s major achievements as Chief of Naval Staff?
His major achievements include launching Operation Dakatar Da Barawo, commissioning new vessels (NNS LANA and NNS KADA), implementing the Falcon Eye maritime surveillance system, conducting the first Presidential Fleet Review since 2010, and significantly reducing crude oil theft in Nigerian waters.