CJN Prohibits 'Barrister' Title at Supreme Court

The Chief Justice of Nigeria, Hon. Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, GCON, issued a directive on July 13, 2026, prohibiting the use of the title "Barrister" as a prefix to names in official business at the Supreme Court.

The memorandum, signed by Chief Registrar Kabir Akanbi, mandates that all lawyers, court officials, and personnel cease using this title in official correspondence, court records, and documents. The directive aims to promote professionalism and uniformity in engagements at the Apex Court.

Heads of Departments and Unit Heads are instructed to enforce compliance among their staff. Although the memorandum does not specify sanctions for non-compliance, it reflects a broader effort to reinforce established conventions within the legal profession, where lawyers are typically identified by their names or professional ranks, such as Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN).

This directive aligns with recent initiatives by legal regulatory bodies to uphold professional ethics, including warnings against unqualified individuals presenting themselves as lawyers.