The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, has directed lawyers and court officials to immediately discontinue the use of the title “Barrister” before their names in all official dealings with the Supreme Court.
The directive, which takes immediate effect, is aimed at strengthening professionalism and standardising official documentation at Nigeria’s apex court.
According to the CJN, the continued use of the title “Barrister” as a prefix is inconsistent with the professional standards expected in Supreme Court proceedings and official correspondence.
The directive applies to legal practitioners, litigation staff, court registrars and all lawyers conducting official business with the Supreme Court.
The decision was communicated in a memorandum dated July 13, 2026, and signed by the Chief Registrar of the Supreme Court, Kabir Akanbi.
The circular stated that the practice no longer aligns with the level of professionalism the Supreme Court seeks to uphold.
“Consequently, all officers concerned are hereby directed to discontinue the use of the title ‘Barrister’ before their names in all official correspondence, records, documents, identity materials, and any other official engagements with immediate effect,” the memo read.
The directive takes effect immediately and is expected to guide all future official interactions and documentation involving the Supreme Court.
