By Abdulkareem Haruna


MAIDUGURI, NIGERIA – Governor of Borno State, Professor Babagana Zulum, has appointed a retired military officer,  Col. Yahaya Gambo (Rtd), to coordinate the state’s Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF).

The appointment of Col. Gambo (Rtd) marks the first time a military personnel has been officially tasked with leading the paramilitary civilian vigilante group since its inception.


According to a statement from Borno’s Secretary to the State Government, Bukar Tijani, the decision aims to “enhance the efficiency of the force” and “sustain the fight against insurgency and consolidate the relative peace being enjoyed across the state.” The CJTF has been a crucial, if informal, partner to the Nigerian military, playing a pivotal role in local intelligence gathering and security operations.


Col. Gambo, a native of Kaga Local Government Area, brings a wealth of experience to the role. His background includes extensive training and practical expertise in intelligence, tactical operations, and conflict resolution. He has held prestigious positions such as Chief of Staff at the Intelligence Support Command in Lagos and, more recently, served as Chief Security Officer for Dangote Fertilizer Limited, where he was responsible for developing corporate security protocols. His expertise also extends to disaster management and psychological first aid.


The appointment places the coordinator’s office under the Ministry of Information and Internal Security, a framework designed to integrate the CJTF more closely with the state’s official security apparatus.

This move is seen by many as an effort to professionalize the volunteer force and to better leverage its on-the-ground knowledge and capabilities. The hope is that Gambo’s military discipline and strategic experience will improve the CJTF’s operational effectiveness and ensure better coordination with government and military forces.


This appointment comes at a critical time as Borno State continues to grapple with security challenges, even as the government claims significant progress in restoring peace. The CJTF’s new leadership could be a key factor in Borno’s long-term strategy to end the insurgency and create a more stable environment for its citizens.