Nilfa Gambo Becomes Youngest Judge in Nigeria

Historically, numerous examples have demonstrated the potential of young people in Nigeria. However, the recent appointment of Nilfa Gambo as the youngest High Court Judge in Nigeria is the best indication of this potential and the capabilities usually only displayed during hard times.

Governor Umar Namadi of Jigawa State kickstarted a trend by appointing Gambo as the state’s High Court Judge, going so far as officiating the swearing-in ceremony.  Namadi made it clear that he is aware of what this portends and how much of a validation it is for Nigerians everywhere, especially the young ones.

Gambo’s appointment at the age of 34 is not just an individual achievement but a symbol of meritocracy and excellence in the Nigerian judiciary. Governor Namadi emphasised this fact, explaining that the selection process was based entirely on merit and ensured that the best candidates were chosen. So, no favouritism or bias was involved.

This makes it all the more apparent that Gambo is among the first and most brilliant of her generation. Her journey to this prestigious position is a testament to her dedication, hard work, and exceptional talent, which can be seen in her academic records.

After graduating from Bayero University Kano, Gambo was called to the Nigerian Bar in 2013. She boosted her qualifications with an LLM from SOAS, University of London, specialising in International Economic Law with a focus on Africa. Moreover, as she is also a certified mediator and international arbitrator, Gambo’s expertise extends beyond traditional legal practice. All these show her diverse skill set and professional experience.

This groundbreaking appointment is not just a personal triumph for Gambo but also a source of pride for her family, aspiring lawyers, and young girls. After all, she is a mother raising four boys. Yet, her resilience and determination, not to mention her supportive husband, have brought her thus far.