Prof. Tar returns to information and internal security ministry

BY ABDULKADIR M. LAWAN, MAY 18, 2026 | 09:00 PM

Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, has reassigned Prof. Usman A. Tar as commissioner of information and internal security, returning him to a ministry he led for nearly three years before the recent cabinet reshuffle.

This was announced in a press release signed by Secretary to the State Government, Bukar Tijani, on Monday.

With his return, Prof. Tar resumes responsibility for managing the state’s communication strategy and coordinating information related to internal security.

The reshuffle also saw the appointment of Engr. Dr. Babagana Mustapha Mallumbe as Acting Chief of Staff to the Governor.

Until now, Dr. Mallumbe served as Deputy Chief of Staff (DCOS I).

According to the statement, the postings are designed to 'strengthen governance and accelerate the implementation of the administration’s 25-year Development Plan and 10-year Strategic Transformation Initiatives.'

Alongside Prof. Tar, nine other newly sworn-in commissioners were assigned portfolios to fill key ministries.

Barr. Hauwa Abubakar was named Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, while Hon. Bukar Mustapha Dalatu will head the Ministry of Budget and Planning.

Hon. Engr. Lawan Abba Wakilbe takes charge of Education, Science, Technology, and Innovation, and Hon. Umar Lawan Dalorima was posted to Finance and Economic Development.

Prof. Baba Mallam Gana will oversee the Ministry of Health and Human Services, and Hon. Sugun Mai Mele was assigned to Local Government and Emirate Affairs.

Hon. Aliyu Mohammed Lawan Buba will lead the Ministry of Transport and Energy, while Hajiya Zuwaira Gambo returns to Women Affairs and Social Development. Hon. Saina Buba was named Commissioner of Youths, Sports, and Poverty Alleviation.

All commissioners are expected to assume office and take charge of their ministries effective immediately.

Prof. Tar’s reinstatement places him at the center of the state’s efforts to manage public communication and coordinate information flow amid ongoing security operations.