May Agbamuche-Mbu Biography: Age, Net Worth, Husband, Family, Career, State of Origin

May Agbamuche-Mbu biography reveals her age, career, net worth, husband Patrick Mbu, family life, and journey as INEC Acting Chairman from Delta State Nigeria.

Who is May Agbamuche-Mbu?

May Agbamuche-Mbu is a distinguished Nigerian lawyer and public servant who currently serves as the Acting Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). She assumed this critical role on October 7, 2025, following the formal handover by Professor Mahmood Yakubu, who proceeded on terminal leave. Her appointment represents a historic moment for Nigeria’s electoral system, as she becomes only the second woman to hold such a position after Mrs. Amina Bala Zakari in 2015.

With over three decades of legal experience spanning private practice, public service, and legal journalism, May Agbamuche-Mbu brings a wealth of expertise to Nigeria’s electoral body. Her career has been marked by significant contributions to corporate law, alternative dispute resolution, and public policy development. As a qualified solicitor in both Nigeria and England and Wales, she possesses unique international credentials that distinguish her in Nigeria’s legal landscape.

Born in Kano State but originally from Delta State, May’s multicultural upbringing has shaped her inclusive worldview and national perspective. Her journey from a law student at the University of Ife to becoming the Acting Chairman of INEC demonstrates the power of dedication, intellectual excellence, and commitment to public service. Her appointment comes at a pivotal time when Nigeria prepares for upcoming elections and continues implementing electoral reforms aimed at deepening democratic integrity.

Quick Facts About May Agbamuche-Mbu

Early Life and Background: Northern Roots, Southern Heritage

May Agbamuche-Mbu was born in 1960 in Kano State, northern Nigeria, although she hails from Delta State in the South-South geopolitical zone. This unique combination of northern upbringing and southern heritage has given her a distinctive multicultural perspective that has shaped her approach to national issues throughout her career.

Her early years in Kano exposed her to the diverse cultural and religious dynamics of northern Nigeria, helping to form her inclusive worldview and commitment to national unity. Growing up in Kano during the 1960s and 1970s provided her with firsthand experience of Nigeria’s complex ethnic and religious tapestry, which would later inform her understanding of the challenges facing the nation’s electoral system.

May belongs to the Delta Igbo ethnic group, representing one of Nigeria’s significant ethnic communities. Her heritage connects her to the rich cultural traditions of Delta State, while her upbringing in the north gave her exposure to Hausa-Fulani culture and Islamic traditions. This blend of experiences positioned her uniquely to understand and navigate Nigeria’s diverse sociocultural landscape.

Her family valued education and instilled in her the importance of academic excellence from an early age. This foundation would prove crucial in her pursuit of legal education and her eventual rise to prominence in Nigeria’s legal and public service sectors. The values of hard work, integrity, and dedication that characterized her upbringing have remained constant throughout her professional journey.

Educational Journey: Building Legal Excellence

Secondary Education in Kano

May Agbamuche-Mbu began her formal education at St. Louis Secondary School in Kano, one of the most prestigious girls’ schools in northern Nigeria. St. Louis Secondary School has a long history of producing accomplished Nigerian women who have excelled in various fields including law, medicine, politics, and business.

Her time at St. Louis provided her with a solid academic foundation and exposed her to rigorous educational standards that prepared her for higher education. The school’s emphasis on character development, academic excellence, and leadership helped shape the professional she would become. During her secondary school years, May demonstrated the intellectual curiosity and analytical skills that would later distinguish her legal career.

University Education and Legal Training

In 1984, May graduated from the University of Ife, now known as Obafemi Awolowo University, with an LLB degree in Law. The University of Ife was one of Nigeria’s premier institutions for legal education, known for its rigorous curriculum and distinguished faculty. Her time at the university provided her with comprehensive grounding in Nigerian law and legal principles.

Following her graduation, May was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1985 after completing her training at the Nigerian Law School. This marked the official beginning of her legal career and authorized her to practice law in Nigeria. However, May’s academic ambitions extended beyond Nigeria’s shores, reflecting her desire for international exposure and expertise.

International Legal Qualifications

May pursued further legal training in the United Kingdom, attending the College of Law in London. She successfully qualified as a Solicitor of the Supreme Court of England and Wales, giving her the unique distinction of being qualified to practice law in both Nigeria and the United Kingdom. This international qualification significantly enhanced her professional credentials and opened doors to international legal practice.

She furthered her legal education by earning an LLM (Master of Laws) degree with specialization in Commercial and Corporate Law from Queen Mary and Westfield College, University of London. This advanced degree deepened her expertise in corporate legal matters and positioned her as a specialist in this increasingly important field.

Specialized Postgraduate Training

Demonstrating her commitment to continuous learning and professional development, May completed two additional postgraduate programs in International Dispute Resolution and International Business Law. These specialized qualifications equipped her with expertise in handling complex international legal matters and alternative dispute resolution mechanisms, making her one of Nigeria’s most comprehensively trained legal practitioners.

Career Journey: Three Decades of Legal Excellence

Early Legal Practice and Private Sector Work

After her call to the Nigerian Bar in 1985 and subsequent qualification as a solicitor in England and Wales, May Agbamuche-Mbu began her legal career working with diverse clients across both the public and private sectors. Her early years in practice allowed her to develop practical legal skills and build a reputation for competence, integrity, and professionalism.

Her expertise in corporate law, commercial transactions, and dispute resolution quickly established her as a sought-after legal practitioner. She handled complex legal matters for corporate clients, advised on business transactions, and provided strategic legal counsel to organizations navigating Nigeria’s evolving business environment.

Norfolk Partners: Building a Legal Practice

May established herself as Managing Partner at Norfolk Partners, a respected Lagos-based law firm specializing in corporate and commercial law. As Managing Partner, she led the firm’s strategic direction, supervised junior lawyers, and handled high-profile legal matters for prominent clients. Her leadership of Norfolk Partners demonstrated her entrepreneurial abilities and her capacity to build and manage successful legal enterprises.

At Norfolk Partners, May mentored a new generation of lawyers, sharing her knowledge and experience with young legal practitioners. Her commitment to professional development and mentorship has been a consistent theme throughout her career, reflecting her belief in nurturing talent and giving back to the legal profession.

Presidential Projects Assessment Committee (2010-2011)

Between March 2010 and November 2011, May served on the Presidential Projects Assessment Committee (PPAC) as the sole solicitor on the committee. This significant public service role involved evaluating an extensive nationwide portfolio of major unfinished public projects across Nigeria. Her work on PPAC required her to travel extensively across the country, assess project implementation, identify challenges, and provide legal advice on project completion strategies.

This role exposed May to the complexities of public sector project management and gave her valuable insights into the challenges of public infrastructure development in Nigeria. Her contributions to PPAC’s work helped the federal government make informed decisions about resource allocation and project prioritization.

Ministerial Committee on Solid Minerals Sector (2016)

In March 2016, May was appointed to the Ministerial Committee established to prepare the Road Map for the Solid Minerals Sector. This appointment reflected recognition of her expertise in corporate law and policy development. The committee’s work was crucial to Nigeria’s economic diversification efforts, particularly given the government’s push to reduce dependence on oil revenues.

Her contributions to the development of the solid minerals sector roadmap demonstrated her ability to translate legal expertise into practical policy recommendations. This work positioned her as someone capable of handling complex policy matters with significant economic implications.

Legal Journalism: THISDAY LAWYER and Legal Eagle Column

From January 2014 to September 2016, May served as the Editor of THISDAY LAWYER, a weekly legal pullout in ThisDay Newspaper, one of Nigeria’s most widely read publications. This role allowed her to influence legal discourse and public policy debates through her editorial leadership.

During this period, May authored the “LEGAL EAGLE” column, publishing 120 legal editorials that provided expert analysis on national and international legal issues. Her columns addressed contemporary legal challenges, offered insights on governance matters, and contributed to public understanding of complex legal issues. The consistent publication of these editorials established her as a thought leader in Nigeria’s legal community and gave her a platform to influence public policy discussions.

Alternative Dispute Resolution and Arbitration

May is recognized as an expert in Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR), reflecting her commitment to finding efficient, cost-effective solutions to legal disputes. She is a member of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators, United Kingdom Nigeria branch, where she served as Secretary. This role involved coordinating the activities of one of the most prestigious arbitration bodies in Nigeria and promoting the use of arbitration and mediation as alternatives to litigation.

Her expertise in ADR has made her a valuable resource for businesses and individuals seeking to resolve disputes outside the traditional court system. This specialization has become increasingly important in Nigeria’s business environment, where court congestion often delays resolution of commercial disputes.

INEC Career: From National Commissioner to Acting Chairman

Appointment as National Commissioner (2016)

May Agbamuche-Mbu was appointed as a National Commissioner of INEC in 2016, representing Delta State. This appointment by the President and subsequent confirmation by the Senate marked her entry into public electoral administration. As a National Commissioner, she became part of the leadership team responsible for conducting elections and ensuring the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic processes.

Her legal background and experience in public service made her particularly suited for this role, which requires both legal expertise and understanding of Nigeria’s complex political environment. Since her appointment, she has been involved in legal and policy reforms within the commission, contributing to efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s electoral processes.

Reappointment and Continued Service (2021)

In 2021, May was reappointed as a National Commissioner, reflecting satisfaction with her performance during her first term. This reappointment demonstrated confidence in her abilities and commitment to INEC’s mission. Her continued service has made her one of the longest-serving commissioners in the current INEC setup, giving her deep institutional knowledge and understanding of the commission’s operations.

Legal Services, Clearance & Complaints Committee

As a National Commissioner, May chairs the Legal Services, Clearance & Complaints Committee (LSCCC), one of INEC’s most critical committees. This committee is responsible for the legal vetting of candidates, handling complaints related to electoral processes, and ensuring compliance with electoral laws and regulations.

Her role as chair of the LSCCC has given her significant influence over the legal aspects of INEC’s operations. The committee’s work is crucial to ensuring that only qualified candidates participate in elections and that electoral disputes are handled fairly and in accordance with the law. This experience has prepared her well for her current role as Acting Chairman.

Assumption of Office as Acting Chairman (October 2025)

On October 7, 2025, May Agbamuche-Mbu officially took over as Acting Chairman of INEC following Professor Mahmood Yakubu’s commencement of terminal leave. Her appointment was reached by consensus of the National Commissioners, with Yakubu noting that she was the most senior commissioner by date of appointment.

During the handover ceremony at INEC headquarters in Abuja, Professor Yakubu expressed confidence in May’s ability to lead the commission during this transitional period. He urged commissioners and directors to extend their full support to her as she assumes responsibility for Nigeria’s electoral body pending the appointment of a substantive chairman.

Her assumption of office comes at a critical time when INEC is preparing for upcoming off-cycle governorship elections and the 2027 general elections. As Acting Chairman, she is responsible for overseeing all aspects of the commission’s operations, including electoral preparations, stakeholder engagement, and implementation of electoral reforms.

Career Timeline & Major Milestones

Personal Life: Marriage, Family and Private Values

Marriage to Patrick Mbu

May Agbamuche-Mbu is married to Mr. Patrick Mbu, a highly accomplished lawyer and Partner in Advisory & Advocacy at Norfolk Partners. Patrick Mbu is an alumnus of Harvard Law School, one of the world’s most prestigious legal institutions, and is highly respected in Nigeria’s legal and corporate circles.

The couple’s shared commitment to the legal profession has created a strong partnership built on mutual understanding and professional respect. Both are recognized for their contributions to Nigeria’s legal landscape, and their marriage represents a union of two distinguished legal minds.

Family Life and Children

May and Patrick Mbu have children together, though they maintain a low profile regarding their family life. The couple’s decision to keep their children and personal life away from public scrutiny reflects their preference for privacy and their desire to protect their family from unnecessary media attention.

This approach to family privacy is consistent with May’s overall professional demeanor, which emphasizes substance over publicity and focuses attention on her work rather than her personal life. Her ability to balance demanding professional responsibilities with family commitments demonstrates strong organizational skills and clear priorities.

Private Values and Lifestyle

May Agbamuche-Mbu is known for maintaining a low public profile and keeping her personal life away from media attention. Unlike many public figures who seek publicity, she prefers to let her professional accomplishments speak for themselves. This modest approach has earned her respect in legal and governance circles, where she is valued for her competence and integrity rather than public relations skills.

Her commitment to privacy does not diminish her influence; rather, it reflects a professional approach that prioritizes substance over style. Colleagues describe her as someone who leads through example, demonstrating the values of hard work, integrity, and dedication that she expects from others.

Her lifestyle reflects the values instilled in her during her upbringing: hard work, dedication to excellence, and commitment to public service. These values have guided her through more than three decades of legal practice and public service, earning her a reputation as one of Nigeria’s most respected legal practitioners and public servants.

Net Worth and Financial Profile

May Agbamuche-Mbu’s estimated net worth stands at approximately $500,000 USD (approximately ₦750 million Naira as of 2025), though this figure has not been verified by Forbes or other official wealth tracking organizations. Her wealth has been accumulated through more than three decades of successful legal practice, including her work as Managing Partner at Norfolk Partners, her role as INEC National Commissioner, and various consulting and advisory positions.

Her income sources have included legal practice fees from corporate clients, salary as INEC National Commissioner, editorial work with ThisDay Newspaper, consulting fees from committee appointments, and earnings from her role as a certified arbitrator. As a senior legal practitioner with international qualifications and extensive experience, she commanded premium fees for her services before joining INEC.

Public service positions in Nigeria, including INEC National Commissioner roles, come with modest official remuneration compared to private sector legal practice. However, the prestige and influence associated with these positions provide significant non-monetary value.

Her financial profile reflects the earnings typical of a successful senior lawyer in Nigeria’s corporate legal sector. While not among Nigeria’s wealthiest individuals, her financial position reflects comfortable middle-to-upper-class status consistent with her professional achievements and years of practice.

Major Achievements and Contributions

Legal Practice Excellence

Throughout her career, May has handled complex corporate transactions, advised major clients across multiple sectors, mentored numerous young lawyers who have gone on to successful careers, and contributed to the development of corporate law practice in Nigeria. Her work in Alternative Dispute Resolution has helped promote efficient dispute resolution mechanisms in Nigeria’s business environment.

Public Service Impact

Her contributions to public service include evaluating major federal infrastructure projects as part of PPAC, contributing to policy development for Nigeria’s solid minerals sector, serving nearly a decade as INEC National Commissioner, chairing the critical Legal Services, Clearance & Complaints Committee, and assuming leadership of Nigeria’s electoral body as Acting Chairman.

Legal Journalism and Thought Leadership

Her work as Editor of THISDAY LAWYER and author of 120 Legal Eagle editorials influenced public policy debates, provided expert legal analysis on contemporary issues, educated the public on complex legal matters, and established her as a thought leader in Nigeria’s legal community.

Alternative Dispute Resolution

As a member and former Secretary of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators, she promoted arbitration and mediation as alternatives to litigation, contributed to the development of ADR practice in Nigeria, handled complex commercial disputes, and trained other legal practitioners in ADR techniques.

Legacy and Influence

May Agbamuche-Mbu’s career has had significant impact across multiple areas of Nigerian society. In legal practice, she has mentored junior lawyers who now occupy important positions, contributed to the development of corporate law practice standards, and promoted the use of alternative dispute resolution mechanisms.

In public service, her work on PPAC helped improve federal project management, and her contributions to INEC have strengthened electoral processes. As Acting INEC Chairman, she provides leadership during a critical transitional period and represents an example of women’s leadership in Nigeria’s public institutions.

As a legal journalist and columnist, her 120 Legal Eagle editorials influenced public discourse on legal and governance issues, educated Nigerians on complex legal matters, and contributed to policy debates on national issues.

Her career trajectory demonstrates the possibilities available to dedicated professionals who combine technical expertise with commitment to public service. As a woman who has excelled in multiple demanding roles, she serves as an inspiration to young women pursuing careers in law and public service.

Interesting Facts About May Agbamuche-Mbu

May is only the second woman to serve as INEC Chairman (Acting or substantive), following Mrs. Amina Bala Zakari who briefly served as Acting Chairman in 2015. She is qualified to practice law in both Nigeria and England and Wales, a relatively rare combination. Her 120 Legal Eagle editorials published between 2014 and 2016 represent one of the most consistent bodies of legal commentary by a single author in Nigerian media.

She served as the sole solicitor on the Presidential Projects Assessment Committee, highlighting the trust placed in her legal expertise. Her educational journey spans three continents with degrees from Nigeria and the UK, including specialized training in international business law and dispute resolution.

Despite her high-profile role, she maintains one of the lowest public profiles among senior government officials, preferring to focus on work rather than publicity. She was born in the North but represents the South at INEC, embodying Nigeria’s federal character principle. Her husband, Patrick Mbu, is a Harvard Law School graduate, making their marriage a union of two highly accomplished legal minds.

She chairs one of INEC’s most powerful committees—the Legal Services, Clearance & Complaints Committee—which vets candidates and handles electoral disputes. Her appointment as Acting Chairman came by consensus of National Commissioners, reflecting respect from her peers. She brings over 30 years of legal experience to electoral administration, combining private sector expertise with public service commitment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How old is May Agbamuche-Mbu?

May Agbamuche-Mbu was born in 1960, making her 65 years old as of 2025.

2. What is May Agbamuche-Mbu’s state of origin?

She hails from Delta State in Nigeria’s South-South geopolitical zone, though she was born in Kano State.

3. Who is May Agbamuche-Mbu’s husband?

She is married to Patrick Mbu, a lawyer and Partner at Norfolk Partners who is an alumnus of Harvard Law School.

4. What is May Agbamuche-Mbu’s net worth?

Her estimated net worth is approximately $500,000 USD (₦750 million Naira), though this has not been officially verified.

5. When did May Agbamuche-Mbu become INEC Acting Chairman?

She assumed office as Acting Chairman of INEC on October 7, 2025, following Professor Mahmood Yakubu’s commencement of terminal leave.

6. What are May Agbamuche-Mbu’s educational qualifications?

She holds an LLB from University of Ife (1984), LLM in Commercial & Corporate Law from Queen Mary University of London, and postgraduate qualifications in International Dispute Resolution and International Business Law.

7. Does May Agbamuche-Mbu have children?

Yes, she has children with her husband Patrick Mbu, though they maintain privacy regarding their family life.

8. What was May Agbamuche-Mbu’s previous position before becoming Acting INEC Chairman?

She served as INEC National Commissioner representing Delta State since 2016 and chaired the Legal Services, Clearance & Complaints Committee.

9. Is May Agbamuche-Mbu qualified to practice law in other countries?

Yes, she is qualified as a Solicitor of the Supreme Court of England and Wales in addition to being called to the Nigerian Bar.

10. What ethnic group does May Agbamuche-Mbu belong to?

She belongs to the Delta Igbo ethnic group from Delta State, Nigeria.