The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, has banned the use of the title “Barrister” as a prefix to names in all official engagements at the Supreme Court.
The directive was issued in a memorandum dated July 13, 2026, and signed by the Chief Registrar of the court, Kabir Akanbi.
According to the circular, the use of “Barrister” before names is considered inappropriate and inconsistent with the professional standards expected at the apex court.
The directive applies to legal practitioners, litigation staff, court registrars, and other officials and takes immediate effect.
“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 other official engagements,” the memo stated.
Heads of departments and unit leaders have also been instructed to ensure strict compliance.
The move is part of ongoing efforts to uphold professionalism within Nigeria’s highest court.
It comes weeks after the Council of Legal Education warned prospective lawyers against wearing legal attire or presenting themselves as qualified practitioners before being formally called to the Nigerian Bar, stressing that such actions undermine the dignity of the profession.
Leave feedback about this