Leading with Integrity: Justice Nyako

In this episode of Justice Beyond the Bench, IAWJ hosts Jane Charles-Voltaire and Amie Lewis welcome Justice Binta Nyako and trace her journey from northern Nigeria—where she became the first woman from Katsina State to study law—to more than two decades on the Federal High Court. Justice Nyako reflects on the cultural and religious barriers she faced entering a male-dominated legal sphere, and how grounding herself in principle and credibility helped her open doors for other women—especially Muslim women—who once believed the bench was out of reach.

Justice Nyako also speaks candidly about presiding over high-profile terrorism and national security cases, emphasizing that a judge must always “be on the side of the law,” applying legal standards equally regardless of power or politics. Beyond the courtroom, she highlights IAWJ programs that shaped her leadership—particularly work addressing sextortion—and offers a clear message for the next generation: live above board, avoid compromise, and protect your independence. Asked what most advances women’s leadership in law, she answers in one word: integrity.