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Abubakar Malami Biography: Law, Politics and Nigeria's Justice Ministry

A full profile of Abubakar Malami, tracing the background, defining career milestones, public reputation and the influence attached to the name.

Abubakar Malami is a Nigerian lawyer and politician from Kebbi State. He is best known for serving as Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice from November 2015 to May 2023.

Abubakar Malami Biography: Law, Politics and Nigeria's Justice Ministry
Key points from this biography

Early Life and Legal Career

Born in Birnin Kebbi on April 17, 1967, Abubakar Malami built his career through legal practice and party politics before becoming one of the leading legal figures in the Buhari administration.

National Politics and the Justice Ministry

Before entering the federal cabinet, he served as National Legal Adviser of the APC. As attorney-general, he was involved in high-profile state litigation, anti-corruption cases and negotiations over the return of looted assets, including the Abacha loot.

Influence and Controversy

Supporters credit him with raising his national profile through legal and political influence, while critics remember his tenure as one of the most controversial periods in Nigeria's justice sector. Either way, Malami remains a significant figure in the legal and political history of the Buhari era.