Honouring Excellence: Professor Hadiza Hamma’s Promotion to Professor of Law
Professor Hadiza Hamma was born on March 2, 1980, in Potiskum, Yobe State, to Alhaji Adamu Hamma (Mamalzadi). She spent her early years in Lagos, where her father worked with the Nigerian Ports Authority. From childhood, she was raised with strong values of respect, humility, discipline, and devotion to Almighty Allah—principles that have guided her remarkable journey.
Educational Background
Her academic path began at Satellite Town Primary School and Nigerian Navy Secondary School in Lagos, where she excelled, graduating as the best student in Arts and Social Sciences in 1999. She briefly attended Central Primary School, Potiskum, in 1984.
Determined to pursue a legal career, she gained admission to the University of Abuja, where she graduated with a Second-Class Upper degree in Law in 2005. Her dedication shone through at the Nigerian Law School, where she ranked among the top five students in her class and was called to the Nigerian Bar in 2006 as a Barrister and Solicitor of the Supreme Court of Nigeria.
After completing her NYSC at Bayero University, Kano, she worked as a Legal Officer at the Federal Ministry of Justice before joining the University of Abuja as an Assistant Lecturer. Her thirst for knowledge pushed her further—she obtained her Master’s degree in 2011 and a PhD in 2016 in record time.
Contributions to Legal Scholarship
Today, Professor Hadiza Hamma is a distinguished scholar in Environmental and Development Law, with over 30 published works, including books, book chapters, and research articles in prestigious journals.
Her book, International Regulatory Regime for Offshore Decommissioning: Developing a Viable Model for Nigeria’s Oil Industry, critically examines legal frameworks governing offshore decommissioning in Nigeria’s oil sector.
Her research focuses on investment treaties, sexual and reproductive health rights, and access to justice, particularly in Nigeria. She has also contributed significantly to fields such as Environmental Law, Natural Resources Governance, Sustainable Development, Human Rights Law, and International Development law.
Beyond her publications, she has presented papers at major national and international conferences, including those organized by:
The United Nations Sustainable Development Solutions Network.
The Law and Development Research Network.
The Nigerian Bar Association.
Her thought-provoking presentations tackle key issues like gender rights, environmental sustainability, and the localization of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Nigeria.
READ ALSO: Meet Dr. Hadiza Hamma: Yobe’s youngest professor and 1st Harvard graduate in Development Practice
Further Achievements and Global Recognition
Her commitment to global development led her to Harvard University, where she pursued a Master of Liberal Arts in Development Practice, completing it with distinction in 2019. Her outstanding academic performance earned her:
The Dean’s Prize for Outstanding Development Practice Capstone.
The Dean’s List Academic Achievement Award.
Today, she continues to inspire and mentor young lawyers and academics as a renowned professor at the University of Abuja.
A Night of Honour and Celebration
The celebration event was held at AGNL Garden and Events Centre, Gudu District, Abuja, and was graced by an esteemed gathering of family, colleagues, and friends, including:
Professor K.M Waziri,Professor S.A Zuru (SAN), Professor Fatima Alkali,Baba Dala Fika (SAN),Alhaji Salisu Hamma,Alhaji Kabiru Filli,Major General J. Mohammed,H.E. Ambassador Safiya A. Nuhu,Hon. Justice Amina Aliyu,Colleagues, classmates, and students from the University of Abuja.
The atmosphere was one of joy, pride, and admiration as guests shared heartfelt words in honour of her achievements.
A Voice for Women’s Education
Professor Hadiza took a moment to highlight the importance of women’s education in Nigeria, passionately stating:
“I am not against gender equality, but I stand for gender equity.”
She emphasized that educating a girl child transforms society in profound ways, reinforcing the need for more educational opportunities for women.
Gratitude and Closing Words
Professor Hadiza concluded the evening with a deep appreciation for those who have been instrumental in her journey:
Her husband, Major General J. Mohammed, for his unwavering support and encouragement, Her parents, for laying the foundation of her education, Her brothers, for their endless support, Her children, for their patience and understanding throughout her academic journey.
She also expressed heartfelt gratitude to all who attended, praying for their safe return to their respective destinations.
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