May Agbamuche-Mbu is a Nigerian legal luminary and public administrator who has made her mark as a strong voice for reform and fairness in governance. In 2025, she was appointed as the Acting Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) following the completion of Professor Mahmood Yakubu’s tenure.
As the most senior National Commissioner at INEC, her appointment followed internal succession procedures, marking a significant moment for the electoral body and for women in leadership in Nigeria.
Known for her professionalism, integrity, and calm leadership style, Agbamuche-Mbu has spent over 30 years building a distinguished career in law and public administration.
May Agbamuche-Mbu Biography
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | May Agbamuche-Mbu |
| Date of Birth | 1960 (Age 65 as of 2025) |
| State of Origin | Delta State |
| Place of Birth | Kano State, Nigeria |
| Religion | Christianity |
| Tribe | Delta (South-South Region) |
| Profession | Lawyer, Public Administrator |
| Current Position | Acting Chairman, INEC |
| Marital Status | Married (Husband not publicly disclosed) |
| Net Worth | Estimated at $120,000 |
Early Life and Background
May Agbamuche-Mbu was born in Kano State, located in Northern Nigeria, although her roots trace back to Delta State in the South-South region. Her early life in Kano gave her a unique perspective on Nigeria’s diversity, something that has shaped her inclusive approach to leadership.
Growing up, she was described as a disciplined and driven student, always striving for excellence. Her parents placed great emphasis on education and moral integrity—values that continue to reflect in her career and personal life.
Education Background
Agbamuche-Mbu’s educational journey reflects her passion for law and justice. She attended St. Louis Secondary School in Kano, where she built a foundation of discipline and academic excellence.
She later proceeded to the University of Ife (now known as Obafemi Awolowo University), where she obtained her Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) in 1984. In 1985, she was called to the Nigerian Bar, officially becoming a lawyer.
Determined to broaden her legal knowledge, May furthered her studies abroad. She attended the College of Law, London, and became a Solicitor of the Supreme Court of England and Wales. She later earned an LL.M in Commercial and Corporate Law from Queen Mary and Westfield College, University of London.
In addition, she completed postgraduate programs in International Dispute Resolution and International Business Law, strengthening her expertise in global legal practices.
Legal and Professional Career
Before joining INEC, May Agbamuche-Mbu built a solid reputation as a seasoned legal practitioner and consultant in both the public and private sectors. Her experience spans corporate law, arbitration, and governance.
She is a member of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (UK), Nigeria Branch, where she also served as Secretary. Through her work, she promoted the use of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms as an efficient means of resolving business and civil conflicts.
Over the years, she has provided advisory services to top-tier organizations and government bodies, focusing on law reform, policy development, and institutional strengthening. Her contributions earned her respect within Nigeria’s legal community as a woman of substance and quiet influence.
Public Service and INEC Leadership
May Agbamuche-Mbu’s foray into public service began when she was appointed as a National Commissioner of INEC, representing the South-South geopolitical zone. Within the commission, she played a key role in electoral policy, administrative reforms, and stakeholder engagement.
Her leadership was characterized by a commitment to transparency and fairness — values she consistently advocated for in electoral management.
In October 2025, following the expiration of Prof. Mahmood Yakubu’s tenure, she was announced as the Acting Chairman of INEC, in line with the commission’s succession structure that allows the most senior National Commissioner to assume leadership temporarily.
Her appointment was widely welcomed across Nigeria as a positive step, symbolizing competence, continuity, and inclusivity in the nation’s democratic process.
Personal Life — Husband and Family
While May Agbamuche-Mbu is known for her public service, she maintains a private personal life. She is married, but details about her husband are not publicly disclosed.
Those close to her describe her as family-oriented, principled, and deeply spiritual. Despite her busy professional life, she is known to balance her work responsibilities with family commitments, reflecting her grounded personality.
Religion and Tribe
May Agbamuche-Mbu is a Christian by faith and practices her religion with devotion. Her beliefs influence her ethical approach to leadership and justice.
She hails from Delta State, part of the South-South region of Nigeria, a multicultural and multilingual area known for its rich cultural heritage. Although born in Kano, she proudly identifies with her Delta roots.
Age
Born in 1960, May Agbamuche-Mbu is 65 years old as of 2025. Her career trajectory reflects decades of experience, mentorship, and commitment to both legal excellence and public accountability.
Net Worth
May Agbamuche-Mbu’s estimated net worth is around $120,000. While she has had a long professional career, her income mainly comes from her legal practice, consulting roles, and official remuneration as an INEC commissioner.
She is not known for flamboyance or wealth display, preferring a modest lifestyle focused on service and impact.
Achievements and Contributions
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Over 30 years of legal practice in Nigeria and the UK.
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Served as Secretary to the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (UK) Nigeria Branch.
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Played a central role in electoral reforms at INEC.
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Appointed Acting Chairman of INEC in 2025 — one of the highest leadership positions in Nigeria’s public sector.
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Advocate for Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) and gender inclusion in governance.
FAQs About May Agbamuche-Mbu
Q: Where is May Agbamuche-Mbu from?
A: She hails from Delta State, Nigeria, but was born in Kano State.
Q: What is May Agbamuche-Mbu’s age?
A: She is 65 years old as of 2025.
Q: Is May Agbamuche-Mbu married?
A: Yes, she is married, although her husband’s details are not publicly known.
Q: What religion does she practice?
A: Christianity.
Q: What is her profession?
A: She is a lawyer and public administrator, currently serving as the Acting Chairman of INEC.
Q: What is her estimated net worth?
A: Her net worth is estimated at approximately $120,000.
Q: What tribe is she from?
A: She is from Delta State, part of Nigeria’s South-South region.
Conclusion
May Agbamuche-Mbu stands out as one of Nigeria’s most respected female leaders in public administration and law. From her humble beginnings in Kano to her elevation as Acting INEC Chairman, her journey is a reflection of hard work, integrity, and commitment to service.
Her contributions to Nigeria’s democratic process and her decades-long dedication to the legal profession make her a role model for young professionals and women aspiring to leadership. As she continues to steer INEC’s affairs, many Nigerians view her tenure as a promising era for fairness and accountability in elections.
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