Hauwa Makarfi

Tech lawyer with a strong interest in data protection, privacy, cybersecurity regulatory compliance, and emerging technologies. Currently pursuing an LL.M. in Information and Communications Technology Law, with research focused on how effectively Nigerian laws safeguard the rights of digital consumers.

Experienced in legal research, policy and regulatory analysis, legal drafting, and compliance, with the ability to interpret and apply complex legal frameworks in fast-changing technological environments.

Also trained in Cloud Computing, giving a practical understanding of digital infrastructure and information governance that complements legal expertise.

Committed to helping organisations navigate data protection, cybersecurity compliance, AI governance, digital regulation, and general technology-driven compliance while promoting ethical innovation, good governance, and accountability.

Legal Practitioner (Barrister and Solicitor) at Independent Practice (while furthering education) (2024-04 – Present)

• Protecting human rights by providing pro-bono legal services to indigent members of the community.
• Draft, review and interpret legal documents such as deeds of assignment, tenancy agreements, contracts, and powers of attorney.
• Register businesses with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), managing end-to-end documentation and compliance processes.
• Offer legal counseling to individuals about legal rights and risks.
• Act as a mediator and/or negotiator to resolve disputes outside the court system using ADR mechanisms, in capacity as Associate Member of the Institute of Chartered Mediators and Conciliators (ICMC).

Legal Extern at Abubakar Mustapha & Associates (2023-06 – 2023-08)

• Prepared and drafted a variety of legal documents, including pleadings, motions, briefs, and client correspondence.
• Participated in court proceedings, including observing trials and assisting attorneys with courtroom preparations.
• Collaborated closely with experienced attorneys who provided mentorship, supervision, and feedback to enhance legal skills and professional development.

Legal Intern at National Human Rights Commission of Nigeria (2022-07 – 2023-05)

• Researched and drafted legal documents including motions and briefs, contributing to a 15% increase in case preparation efficiency.
• Collaborated with senior legal officers to prepare for hearings and mediations, enhancing the overall quality of legal arguments and presentations.
• Conducted extensive legal research on national and international human rights laws, supporting the drafting of three significant policy reports published by the Commission.
• Participated in regular training sessions and workshops to enhance knowledge and skills in human rights law and advocacy.

LLM in Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Law – Nile University (2025-01 – 2026-10)

Qualifying Certificate in Law in Law – Nigerian Law School (2023-01 – 2024-12)

Bachelor of Laws in Laws (LL.B) – Ahmadu Bello University (2015-01 – 2022-12)

Certificate in Cloud Computing – 3Million Technical Talent Programme (3MTT) [NITDA] (2024-01 – 2025-12)