May Agbamuche-Mbu is a woman whose life embodies grace, intellect, and service. Born and raised in the vibrant city of Kano, yet proudly rooted in Delta State, her upbringing in northern Nigeria instilled in her an enduring appreciation for the country’s cultural and ethnic diversity — a foundation that continues to influence her inclusive approach to leadership and public duty.
Her journey into law began at the University of Ife, now Obafemi Awolowo University, where she obtained her Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree in 1984. The following year, she was called to the Nigerian Bar. Determined to expand her professional horizon, she proceeded to the United Kingdom, where she attended the College of Law, London, and qualified as a Solicitor of the Supreme Court of England and Wales. She later earned a Master of Laws (LLM) degree in Commercial and Corporate Law from Queen Mary & Westfield College, University of London. Her academic pursuits also include postgraduate diplomas in International Dispute Resolution and International Business Law.
Agbamuche-Mbu’s career reflects a seamless blend of private practice, academia, media, and public service. As the Managing Partner of Norfolk Partners, a Lagos-based law firm she co-founded, she built a reputation for excellence, precision, and mentorship. Her interest in Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) — rooted in her belief in fairness and dialogue — led her to become a member of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (UK and Nigeria branches), where she once served as Secretary of the Nigerian branch.
Beyond the courtroom, she distinguished herself in legal journalism. Between 2014 and 2016, she served as Editor of THISDAY LAWYER and wrote the widely followed “Legal Eagle” column, through which she authored over 120 essays exploring reforms, justice, and the evolution of Nigeria’s legal system.
Her transition into national service came with her appointment to the Presidential Projects Assessment Committee (PPAC) between 2010 and 2011, where she served as the sole solicitor tasked with evaluating federal projects across Nigeria. She also contributed to a ministerial committee in 2016 that developed a strategic roadmap for Nigeria’s solid minerals sector, reflecting her growing influence in national policy formulation.
In 2016, May Agbamuche-Mbu was appointed as a National Commissioner of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), representing Delta State. Within the Commission, she has chaired the Legal Services, Clearance and Complaints Committee, where she has played a central role in strengthening legal compliance, electoral integrity, and institutional accountability.
On October 7, 2025, she was designated as the Acting Chairman of INEC, following the departure of Professor Mahmood Yakubu. As the senior-most National Commissioner, her appointment reflects both her depth of experience and her reputation for fairness, discipline, and administrative competence.
Throughout her career, May Agbamuche-Mbu has remained a model of professionalism and ethical leadership. Her guiding principles — integrity in purpose, excellence in execution, and fairness in judgment — have defined every stage of her journey.
To colleagues and observers alike, she represents the quiet strength of the modern Nigerian woman — intelligent, principled, and steadfast in service to her nation. Her story continues to inspire confidence in the values of democracy, justice, and good governance, proving that true leadership lies not in power, but in the will to serve.
