#Headlines

Gambia appoints 1st DPP in 6 years

Aug 30, 2023, 11:17 AM

Abdurrahman Maitama Yusuf has been appointed Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) by President Adama Barrow, according to sources familiar with the development.

His appointment as DPP came to effect in August this year. The last time Ministry of Justice had a DPP was in 2017.

BIOGRAPHY

Mr. Abdurrahman Maitama Yusuf is a distinguished legal professional whose illustrious journey in the field of law is marked by notable achievements and a profound dedication to justice. Graduating from Bayero University Kano, Nigeria, he earned his LL.B. degree in Law in the year 2002. This was followed by his enrollment at the prestigious Nigeria Law School Abuja, where he successfully obtained his BL certificate and was duly called to the Bar in 2004. Displaying an unwavering commitment to academic excellence, Mr. Yusuf returned to Bayero University to attain his Master's degree (LL.M) in 2009.

With an expansive career spanning over 19 years, Mr. Yusuf has significantly contributed to the field of law, specializing in criminal prosecutions and administration. His journey commenced at the Ministry of Justice Zamfara State, Nigeria, in 2004, where he served as Senior State Counsel. This was but a stepping stone to his subsequent engagement as a Legal Officer 1 at the Federal Ministry of Justice Abuja, Nigeria, in 2005. Demonstrating exceptional legal acumen and dedication, Mr. Yusuf's progression was noteworthy. He ascended the ranks, assuming pivotal roles such as Senior State Counsel, Principal State Counsel, Assistant Chief State Counsel and Chief State Counsel.

Mr. Yusuf's remarkable legal expertise transcended borders when he was seconded by the Federal Government of Nigeria to The Gambia Legal Sector in 2008. This appointment, orchestrated through a bilateral agreement, saw him assuming the role of a Technical Assistant. Throughout his tenure, he successfully concluded numerous cases. His contributions extended beyond prosecution to encompass the provision of legal counsel and the mentorship to emerging legal talents within the ministry for over 14 years.

Notably, Mr. Yusuf's exceptional trajectory led him to the position of Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions at the Attorney General Chambers Banjul, where he presided over the Criminal Division of the Ministry of Justice (Banjul) from 2019.