Mohammed Abdullahi Abubakar, Former Bauchi Governor, Sworn In as Senior Advocate of Nigeria
Former Bauchi State Governor Mohammed Abdullahi Abubakar, popularly known as Makama Babban Bauchi, has officially joined the elite rank of legal practitioners as he was sworn in as a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) on Monday, 28th November 2022.
The swearing-in ceremony took place at the Supreme Court of Nigeria, where other distinguished legal professionals were also honored.
This elevation is seen not only as a personal milestone for Abubakar but also as a moment of pride for Bauchi State and the legal community at large.
Who Is Mohammed Abdullahi Abubakar?
A seasoned lawyer and politician, Abubakar is widely respected for his contributions to Nigeria’s legal and democratic landscape.
Before serving as the governor of Bauchi State (2015–2019), he held several legal and administrative roles, including
Former Resident Electoral Commissioner (INEC)
Former Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Bauchi State
Former Chairman, Nigerian Bar Association (Bauchi Branch)
His return to the legal profession after public service has been marked by renewed commitment to upholding justice and legal excellence.
What Does the SAN Title Mean?
The title Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) is the highest rank for legal practitioners in the country, akin to the Queen’s Counsel (QC) in the UK. It is reserved for individuals who have
Made significant contributions to the growth of legal practice
Demonstrated excellence in advocacy or legal scholarship
Upheld professional ethics and integrity
Becoming a SAN is a mark of prestige, professionalism, and dedication to legal advocacy in Nigeria.
Reactions and Recognition
Tributes and congratulatory messages have poured in from across Nigeria’s legal, political, and traditional institutions.
Many described Abubakar’s SAN elevation as “well-deserved” and “long overdue,” noting his decades-long service to the bar and the nation.
Prominent figures and professional colleagues, especially from Bauchi, have hailed the honor as a positive reflection on the state and a motivation for young lawyers.
What This Means for Bauchi’s Legal Landscape
With his elevation, Mohammed Abdullahi Abubakar is expected to further influence the legal space in Bauchi and beyond.
As Makama Babban Bauchi, a traditional titleholder and now a SAN, his role as a mentor and thought leader will likely deepen within the Northern Bar Forum and national legal policy conversations.
His presence in both political and legal circles positions him as a bridge between governance and law, a rare profile that could be critical for legal reforms and advocacy in Northern Nigeria.
Stay tuned for more updates and professional highlights from Nigeria’s evolving legal landscape.
