In 1993, Abdullahi began his career as a lawyer with Messrs Ola Olanipekun & Co. (Prime Chambers), as an Associate Attorney. He is Founding Partner Tafida Chambers (Messrs Hammart & CO. Solicitors/Advocates), Abuja. Between 2006 and 2011 he was vice president, Administrative and Regulatory, Intercell Tech. Limited; and company secretary/Legal Adviser of
Transnational Corporation of Nigeria, Lagos. Between 2000 and 2002, he served as Deputy general manager/company secretary, Nasarawa Investment & Property Development Company, after serving as chairman, Karu local government in 1996. He was appointed Secretary to the State Government of Nasarawa by Governor
Umaru Tanko Al-Makura and served from 2017 to 2019 before his appointment into the Federal Executive council by President
Muhammadu Buhari. During his ministerial screening at the
Senate, there were appeals from some senators for him to enjoy the privilege reserved for former lawmakers to 'take a bow'; with little or no scrutiny. Their appeals were based on his previous exploits in state governance. He however answered a few questions on women empowerment and security. After his successful screening, he was assigned by President Muhammadu Buhari to serve in his cabinet as Minister for State, Science and Technology. In April 2022, he was appointed by the president as the Minister of Environment. ==Membership==