With deep sense of loss, humility and gratitude to Almighty God, I pay this solemn tribute to a distinguished son of Gombe State and Nigeria, Late Rear Admiral Umar Sammy Ayuba Chugali (Rtd), whose passing has left a profound vacuum in our state, the Armed Forces of Nigeria, and the many communities he selflessly served.
Rear Admiral Umar Ayuba Chugali lived a life defined by discipline, patriotism, integrity and unwavering commitment to national service. Throughout his illustrious career in the Armed Forces of Nigeria, particularly the Nigerian Navy, he served with honour and distinction, rising through the ranks by merit, professionalism and exemplary leadership. His service record reflected courage, loyalty to duty and an uncommon devotion to the defence and unity of our great nation.
Beyond his meritorious military career, the late Rear Admiral was a man of the people. He remained deeply connected to his roots in Balanga Local Government Area and Gombe State at large. He believed firmly in giving back to society and consistently demonstrated this through community development efforts, mentorship of young people and support for peace, unity and progress. He was always with his people on all occasions. Just recently, on the 12th of July, 2025, he personally led a delegation to the burial of Late Navy Lieutenant D. K. Nehemiah, further underscoring his humility, compassion and sense of responsibility to both the living and the departed. His life was a testimony that true leadership is measured not only by rank, but by impact.
As a committed Christian, Rear Admiral Chugali also served God faithfully through the Church, offering moral guidance, material support and encouragement to the body of Christ. His faith shaped his values and informed his compassionate approach to life, service and humanity.
Only recently, in what now stands as a poignant reminder of his enduring legacy, he represented the Chief of Naval Staff to commission projects under the Navy–Military Quick Impact Intervention Projects at Mona in Balanga Local Government Area, organised in his honour to mark his retirement from active service. That occasion symbolised not only the nation’s appreciation of his years of sacrifice, but also his lifelong commitment to using institutions of service for the direct benefit of the people.
Indeed, there were great hopes that his return home after decades of dutiful national service would further bring his vast experience, wisdom and leadership to bear on the development of Balanga, Gombe State and Nigeria as a whole. While death has curtailed these expectations, his life’s work remains a rich inheritance for us all.
On behalf of myself and family, I extend heartfelt condolences to his family, the Nigerian Armed Forces, the people of Balanga Local Government Area, the Cham Chiefdom the Church, and all who were touched by his remarkable life. We pray that Almighty God grants his soul eternal rest and gives his loved ones the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.
Rear Admiral Umar Ayuba Chugali may have answered the final call, but his legacy of service, faith, humility and patriotism will continue to inspire generations yet unborn.
Signed:
Manassah Daniel Jatau, Ph.D,
Deputy Governor, Gombe State.
