In the male-dominated spheres of corporate law and governance, Dr. Maryam Shehu Mohammed stands out as a formidable force. As the Company Secretary and Legal Adviser at Mafab Communications Limited, her career is a masterclass in breaking barriers, championing governance, and empowering others—both in the boardroom and beyond.
A Legal Luminary with a Passion for Governance
Maryam’s journey began in Kaduna State, where she cut her teeth as a prosecutor at the Ministry of Justice. Since then, her career has spanned energy, telecommunications, and public-private partnerships, with leadership roles at Kaduna Electricity Distribution Plc, Abuja Investments Company Limited, and Abuja Urban Mass Transport Company Limited.
Her expertise isn’t just confined to Nigeria—she’s a Mandela Washington Fellow (part of President Obama’s prestigious programme for Africa’s top young leaders) and holds qualifications from Morgan State University (USA), Lagos Business School, and the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (UK).
Driving Corporate Excellence
A corporate governance specialist, Maryam has been instrumental in shaping best practices across industries. She’s a:
– Life member of the Institute of Directors (IOD)
– Chartered Secretary with ICSAN
– Certified Board Evaluator & Auditor
– Faculty member at multiple institutions
Her PhD research at Ahmadu Bello University focused on Public-Private Partnerships in Nigeria, while her LLM and Leadership Studies dissected human rights in criminal justice and gender representation in the power sector.
Beyond the Boardroom: A Heart for Service
Maryam’s impact extends far beyond legal briefs and board meetings. She founded the Charity to Cheer Foundation, an NGO providing medical care for the destitute and support for orphans.
“Leadership isn’t just about corporate success—it’s about lifting others,” she believes.
Why She Inspires
– Breaking Glass Ceilings: From prosecutor to top-tier corporate adviser, her career defies stereotypes.
– Advocate for Women: Her research and mentorship push for greater female participation in leadership.
– Scholar-Practitioner: Balancing a thriving legal career with academic contributions and philanthropy.
Final Thoughts
Dr. Maryam Shehu Mohammed embodies what it means to be a modern leader—strategic, compassionate, and unafraid to challenge the status quo. Whether in courtrooms, boardrooms, or charity work, she proves that impact isn’t confined to one arena.
“Good governance isn’t just policy—it’s about people,” she says. And her life’s work reflects just that.
