Tahir Mamman SAN OON is a prominent Nigerian lawyer, professor, and academic who has made significant contributions to the legal field, education sector, and politics in Nigeria. With an impressive career spanning several decades, Mamman has held esteemed positions such as Director-General of the Nigerian Law School and Vice Chancellor of Baze University, Abuja. Currently, he serves as the Minister of Education in Nigeria, overseeing the development and implementation of educational policies and programs in the country.
Early Life and Education
Tahir Mamman SAN was born on July 7, 1954, in Michika, Adamawa State. His passion for law and education began early in his life which made him to pursued his LL.B degree at Ahmadu Bello University, graduating in 1983. Following his undergraduate studies, he successfully completed his legal training at the Nigerian Law School, where he was called to the bar in 1984. Eager to expand his knowledge and expertise, Mamman pursued further studies abroad, obtaining a master’s degree from the University of Warwick, England, in 1987. He later went on to earn his Ph.D. from the same university in 1990, specializing in a specific area of law.
Tahir Mamman SAN Career in Academia
Mamman embarked on an illustrious academic career, starting as a lecturer at the University of Maiduguri. Over the years, he steadily rose through the ranks, eventually becoming the Dean of the Faculty of Law at the university. His expertise and dedication to legal education led to his appointment as the Director-General of the Nigerian Law School, a position he held from 2005 to 2013. During his tenure, Mamman played a crucial role in shaping the legal education landscape in Nigeria, ensuring high standards and quality legal training for aspiring lawyers.
Contributions to the Legal Field
Mamman’s contributions to the legal field extend beyond his role as an academic. He is a recognized member of the Body of Benchers, a prestigious association of legal practitioners in Nigeria. Additionally, he has been actively involved in various legal associations and organizations, both nationally and internationally. Mamman has served on the Council of Legal Education, Nigerian Bar Association, Nigerian Association of Law Teachers, Commonwealth Legal Education Association, International Bar Association, and more. His involvement in these organizations has allowed him to contribute to legal reforms, share his expertise, and collaborate with legal professionals from around the world.
Recognition and Honors
In recognition of his outstanding contributions to the legal field and education sector, Mamman has received several prestigious honors and awards. In September 2015, he was conferred with the title of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), a distinguished recognition bestowed upon lawyers who have demonstrated exceptional legal knowledge and professional integrity. Furthermore, the Federal Government of Nigeria honored Mamman with the national award of Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON), acknowledging his significant impact on the country’s legal and educational landscape.
Tahir Mamman’s Entry into Politics
In 2014, Mamman made a foray into party politics, joining the All Progressives Congress (APC). He contested the Adamawa State governorship election on the party’s platform, showcasing his commitment to public service and governance. In 2020, Mamman’s political career took a new turn when he was appointed as a member representing the northeast geopolitical zone and acting national vice chairman northeast in the National Caretaker/Extraordinary Convention Planning Committee (CECPC) of the APC. This appointment further solidified his role as a key figure in the party and demonstrated his ability to contribute to political decision-making processes.
Chieftaincy Titles and Community Involvement
Beyond his professional achievements, Mamman is deeply rooted in his community and holds chieftaincy titles in the Adamawa Emirate and Adamawa State. He is known as Dan Ruwata Adamawa Emirate and Dokajin Mubi of Adamawa State. These titles reflect his close ties to his cultural heritage and his commitment to community development.
