By Najib Lawan Danbazau
The Kano State Government has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to promoting gender inclusion and strengthening the role of women within the justice sector as it hosted the 2026 Annual National General Conference of the Nigerian Bar Association Women Forum (NBAWF).
The landmark event, held on 30 March 2026 at the Affencent Grand Marquees, Nassarawa GRA, Kano, brought together distinguished legal minds, policymakers, and stakeholders from across the country under the theme:
“Time to Gain: Building a Culture of Leadership, Legacy, and Support.”
Representing lGovernor of Kano State, Abba Kabir Yusuf, the Honourable Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Hon. Abdulkarim Kabiru Maude, SAN, delivered a keynote address emphasizing the State Government’s dedication to fostering an inclusive and equitable justice system.
He noted that a justice system that reflects diversity is better positioned to deliver fairness, equity, and public confidence. According to him, Kano State has taken deliberate steps to empower women in the legal profession, ensuring they are given equal opportunities to lead and excel.
The Attorney General conveyed the Governor’s pride in Kano State’s historic milestone with the emergence of the State’s first female Chief Judge, describing it as a testament to integrity, reform, and visionary leadership, as well as a clear indication of the judiciary’s progressive direction
He further highlighted that hosting the NBAWF conference in Kano marks a first of its kind in Northern Nigeria, underscoring the State’s leadership in promoting gender inclusion across the region.
He also emphasized the growing number of female judges on the bench and the strong representation of women within the Ministry of Justice. Notably, a significant number of recently promoted State Counsel are female lawyers who have consistently demonstrated excellence, diligence, and commitment to public interest litigation.
Their contributions continue to strengthen the institutional capacity of justice delivery in Kano State.
Furthermore, the Attorney General disclosed that, of the 74 lawyers currently serving in the State Ministry of Justice, the majority are women. He assured that the Government will continue to prioritize the welfare, professional development, and advancement of women in the legal sector.
In her welcome address, the Chairperson of the Kano State NBA Women Forum, Barrister Huwaila Muhammad Ibrahim, commended the Kano State Government for hosting the historic conference and for its sustained support for women in the legal profession.
She acknowledged the remarkable contributions of women to the justice system and called for continued collaboration in building a more inclusive and supportive legal environment.
The conference featured goodwill messages and presentations from prominent dignitaries, including representatives of the Honourable Attorney General of the Federation and Minister for Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN; the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Honourable Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun; the President of the Nigerian Bar Association; and the Chief Judge of Kano State, Honourable Justice Dije Abdu Aboki.
Also in attendance was the representative of the Emir of Kano, Malam Muhammadu Sanusi II, represented by the Walin Kano, Barrister Bashir Abubakar Wali, further underscoring the importance of the event and the support of traditional institutions in advancing justice sector reforms.
Other notable personalities in attendance included former NBA Chairman, A. B. Mahmoud, SAN, and Professor Auwalu Yadudu of Bayero University Kano, all of whom contributed to discussions on strengthening leadership, mentorship, and support systems for women in the legal profession.
The Kano State Government expressed deep appreciation to the Nigerian Bar Association Women Forum for choosing Kano as the host of this historic national event and commended all participants for their commitment to advancing the cause of women in the justice sector.
Special commendation was extended to the Honourable Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Abdulkarim Kabiru Maude, SAN, for his unwavering support, visionary leadership, and strong commitment to policies and reforms that promote gender inclusion and strengthen justice delivery in Kano State.
The Government also reaffirmed its support for the vision of His Excellency, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, in building a just, inclusive, and progressive society where women are empowered to lead and contribute meaningfully to governance and development.
