An esteemed jurist from Kebbi State, was born on February 22, 1960 in Birnin-Kebbi. His academic journey began at Mallam Salihu Primary School (1966-1968), followed by Central Primary School, Birnin-Kebbi (1968-1972), and Government Secondary School, Kamba (1973-1977). He then attended the State College of Arts & Science, Sokoto (1977-1980), and later pursued a degree in law at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria (1980-1983). Upon completing his studies, he attended the Nigerian Law School, Lagos, and was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1984.
In addition to his formal legal education, Hon. Justice Umar furthered his professional development at the Institute of Advanced Legal Studies, Lagos (1987), the Royal Institute of Public Administration, London (1989), and the University of Johannesburg, South Africa (2005).
Following his National Youth Service (NYSC) in 1985, Hon. Justice Umar commenced his legal career as a State Counsel II in the Ministry of Justice, Sokoto State, where he served from 1985 to 1986. Over the years, his commitment to the legal profession saw him rise through the ranks, serving as Senior State Counsel II (1988-1990), Principal State Counsel (1991-1993), and Assistant Director, Civil Litigation (1993-1995). His leadership capabilities were further recognized when he served as Director of Legal Drafting (1996-1997) and as Deputy Chief Registrar of the Court of Appeal (1997-2001), ultimately becoming the Chief Registrar of the Court of Appeal (2002-2003).
In 2003, in recognition of his exceptional service and expertise, Hon. Justice Umar was appointed as a High Court Judge of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). He held this esteemed position until his elevation to the Court of Appeal in 2018. Throughout his distinguished career, he served in various capacities, including as Legal Adviser to the Nigeria/Niger Joint Commission, Sokoto, and as Chairman/Member of several Local Government and Governorship Election Petition Tribunals.
Hon. Justice Umar’s contributions to the legal profession have been recognized with numerous awards for meritorious service. He is also a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Mediation, Negotiation and Reconciliation, as well as the Lagos Court of Arbitration (LCA). His Lordship has actively participated in several seminars and conferences, both locally and internationally.
On February 26, 2024, Hon. Justice Abubakar Sadiq Umar was sworn in as a Justice of the Supreme Court, a testament to his exemplary service and dedication to the rule of law.