Abubakar is a graduate of Ahmadu Bello University in Zaria where he obtained a B.Sc Accounting degree. While studying at the University, he became involved in community activism, sport and business. Badaru is also an alumnus of the National Institute of Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS) in Kuru.
After his graduation he established his business, the Talamiz Group, a conglomerate with diverse interest in automobiles, manufacturing, agriculture and animal husbandry, as well as commodity distribution. Before his election on 12 April 2015 as the Governor, Abubakar was Vice President II of the Federation of the West Africa Chamber of Commerce and a Fellow of the Association of National Accountants of Nigeria. He is currently the National President of the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture.
He also was a gubernatorial candidate of Action Congress of Nigeria who lost to Sule Lamido.
Abubakar also contested for governorship under the platform of the All Progressives Congress in 2015 along with PDP contender Mal. Aminu Ibrahim Ringim.
In recognition of his hard work, philanthropic activities, Abubakar was conferred with the traditional title of Sardaunan Ringim and Walin Jahun in Ringim and Jahun emirate council respectively. He was also conferred with the national honour of the Member of the Order of Niger (MON) by the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Prior to that, he was a member of the National Council on Privatisation.
