Abdulkareem Isa Adabenege
Abdulkareem Isa Adabenege
Director of Legal Services and Enforcement, Kogi State Internal Revenue Service (KGIRS)
Career Summary:
Abdulkareem Isa Adabenege is a seasoned legal professional with over 21 years of extensive experience across both the public and private sectors in Nigeria. He is known for his resourcefulness, creativity, and forward-thinking approach to legal challenges. Currently serving as the Director of Legal Services and Enforcement at the Kogi State Internal Revenue Service (KGIRS), he has demonstrated exceptional leadership and expertise in managing legal services, compliance, and enforcement within the public sector.
With a career spanning multiple law firms, government departments, and private legal practice, Abdulkareem has built a diverse skill set in various areas of law, including litigation, corporate and commercial law, constitutional law, administrative law, and pre- and post-election litigation.
Educational Background:
- Bachelors of Law (LL.B. Hons.), Bayero University, Kano (2003)
- Barrister-at-Law (B.L. Hons.), Nigeria Law School, Bwari, Abuja (2003)
Abdulkareem has also participated in numerous local and international seminars and training programs, particularly focused on commercial law, litigation, and administrative law.
Professional Memberships:
- Member, Nigerian Bar Association (NBA)
- Member, International Bar Association (IBA)
Career Path & Work Experience:
- NYSC Service (2003):
Chief Enynna Onuegbu & Co., Owerri, Imo State
Abdulkareem commenced his legal career with the NYSC service in 2003 at Chief Enynna Onuegbu & Co, where he honed his foundational legal skills in a fast-paced legal environment. - Aliyu Saiki & Co. (2003 – 2012):
Abdulkareem spent nearly a decade with Aliyu Saiki & Co., located in Okene, Kogi State. Here, he developed a deep understanding of various legal sectors, particularly in litigation, corporate law, and commercial transactions. - Abdulkareem Isa & Co. Law Firm (2013 – 2023):
As the Head of Litigation at his own law firm, Abdulkareem led numerous successful cases, establishing a strong reputation in handling complex litigation matters, especially in constitutional and administrative law. His work as a strategic legal counsel gained recognition, and his firm became a prominent player in the legal landscape of Kogi State and beyond. - Kogi State Ministry of Justice (April 2024 – October 2024):
Abdulkareem was appointed as the Deputy Director, Civil Litigations, where he managed civil litigation matters for the Kogi State Ministry of Justice. His role involved overseeing legal cases and offering counsel on constitutional and civil matters affecting the state government. - Kogi State Internal Revenue Service (KGIRS) (October 2024 – Present):
Abdulkareem was redeployed to the Kogi State Internal Revenue Service as the Director of Legal Services and Compliance. In this role, he oversees legal services related to tax enforcement and compliance, playing a crucial role in the state’s revenue generation and legal governance.
Expertise & Specializations:
- Pre- and Post-Election Litigation
- Constitutional and Administrative Law
- Corporate and Commercial Law
- General Legal Counsel
- Litigation and Dispute Resolution
Key Skills:
- Turn-around legal counsel
- Strategic legal planning
- Expertise in public sector law
- Strong advocacy and litigation skills
- Effective negotiation and legal advisory
- Leadership and team management in legal services
Approach to Law:
Abdulkareem is widely regarded as a pragmatic legal counsel with a keen ability to navigate complex legal issues, ensuring practical, effective solutions that drive results. His career reflects a deep commitment to excellence, a visionary approach to legal services, and a passion for advancing public service through robust legal frameworks.
With his extensive experience in litigation, legal compliance, and strategic counsel, Abdulkareem Isa Adabenege continues to contribute significantly to the legal landscape in Nigeria, particularly in Kogi State.