Zainab Sabo Mustafa is not only a distinguished legal professional but also a beacon of social responsibility, with over seven years of legal excellence under her belt. As the founder of Farindoki Foundation, a non-profit organization established in 2020, she extends her passion for positive change far beyond the courtroom.
Born on June 14, 1983, in Gombe, Zainab embarked on her legal journey at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, where she earned a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) degree. Her legal prowess continued to blossom at the Nigerian Law School, Lagos Campus, where she obtained the prestigious Barrister at Law (BL) qualification in 2010.
In November 2017, Zainab joined AITEO, an indigenous oil and gas firm, as the Manager of Public Sector and Corporate Relationships, a role in which she oversees the day-to-day affairs of interfacing with stakeholders in the oil and gas sector.
Prior to her tenure at AITEO, she served as a Partner at ESBEE & PARTNERS in Abuja, FCT, managing a diverse portfolio of private and public-sector clients. Additionally, she was a partner at Z S MUSTAFA Chambers, actively involved in all aspects of the firm’s practice, including general litigation, human rights advocacy, business incorporations, and corporate restructuring.
During her time as Partner at SB & Partners in Abuja, FCT, Zainab demonstrated her commitment to social responsibility by actively pursuing pro bono cases, achieving favorable settlements, and conducting criminal investigations to strengthen legal cases.
Zainab’s journey has been marked by leadership and collaboration. As Head of Chambers at M.M Mailumo & Co in Gombe State, she played a crucial role in mentoring legal practitioners and law school students, instilling principles of law firm and courtroom decorum. Her diverse experience, including liaison duties at GALAXY BACKBONE PLC during her National Youth Service Corps, underscores her adaptability and dedication to bridging gaps between regional offices and headquarters.
An advocate for continuous learning, Zainab has participated in numerous Continued Professional Development (CPD) programs, including the Bank of Industry – Capacity Building Program and courses offered by the African Management Initiative.
As a proud member of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Zainab embodies the virtues of patience, persuasiveness, and active listening. Her diverse skill set encompasses legal writing, leadership, and proficiency in information technology tools.
Outside of her professional endeavors, Zainab finds joy in travel, socializing, and swimming. Through the Farindoki Foundation, she channels her passion for positive change to regions affected by conflict, climate crisis, supporting pregnant women, school children, widows, and displaced persons.
With a legacy rooted in legal expertise and social responsibility, Zainab Sabo Mustafa continues to inspire and lead by example in both the legal and humanitarian spheres.
