Governor Inuwa Yahaya Mourns Rear Admiral Chugali, Calls His Passing a Painful Loss to Gombe and Nigeria
By, Alphapressmedia. com
Gombe, Nigeria — January 16, 2026
Gombe State grieves the loss of Rear Admiral Umar Sammy Ayuba Chugali (rtd), a gallant officer whose life of service, sacrifice, and community impact will remain a source of pride for Nigeria.
Gombe State Governor, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, CON, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Rear Admiral Umar Sammy Ayuba Chugali (rtd), describing his death as a painful loss not only to Gombe State but to the entire nation.
In a heartfelt statement, Governor Yahaya paid tribute to the late senior naval officer, hailing him as a gallant, disciplined, and highly professional military leader who served Nigeria with honour, courage, and uncommon patriotism throughout his distinguished career in the Nigerian Navy.
Beyond his operational achievements, the Governor highlighted Rear Admiral Chugali’s enduring commitment to community development. He noted that the officer was instrumental in facilitating projects such as solar-powered boreholes and the construction of classrooms and staff quarters under the Chief of Naval Staff’s Special Intervention Scheme — initiatives that reflected his dedication to human development and social progress.
“Gombe State mourns a worthy son whose life exemplified service, sacrifice and love for humanity,” Governor Yahaya said.
The Governor extended condolences to the Admiral’s wife, Mrs. Yulgo Juliet Chugali, his four children, extended family, the Nigerian Navy, and the people of Balanga Local Government Area. He prayed Almighty God to grant the departed eternal rest and give his loved ones the fortitude to bear the loss.
Born in 1968 in Dungaje Mona, Cham Chiefdom of Balanga LGA, Rear Admiral Chugali began his education at Government Secondary School, Gombe (Class of 1987), before proceeding to the Nigerian Defence Academy in 1988. He was commissioned into the Nigerian Navy in 1993, graduating with a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry.
His career was marked by discipline and excellence. He served across various naval formations, earned respect as an instructor at the Naval Training School in Onne, Rivers State, and underwent specialized training in Naval Police duties. Rising through the ranks, he became the 14th Flag Officer Commanding the Central Naval Command, where he played a pivotal role in strengthening maritime security and inter-agency collaboration.
Rear Admiral Chugali retired honourably in October 2025, leaving behind a legacy of integrity, patriotism, and service that continues to inspire.
According to the official statement, his remains will be laid to rest on Friday, January 23, 2026, at his family compound in Dungaje, Mona, Cham Chiefdom, Balanga Local Government Area of Gombe State. End
