The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, has directed lawyers, court registrars and litigation staff to immediately stop using “Barrister” as a prefix to their names in all official engagements at the Supreme Court, describing the practice as inconsistent with the standards of professionalism expected at Nigeria’s apex court.
The directive was conveyed through an official memorandum dated July 13, 2026, signed by the Chief Registrar of the Supreme Court, Kabir Akanbi, and circulated to legal practitioners and court personnel. The circular states that the title “Barrister” should no longer appear before names in official correspondence, records, identity materials or any court-related documentation.
CJN Pushes for Higher Professional Standards
According to the memorandum, the continued use of “Barrister” as a name prefix is considered inappropriate within the Supreme Court’s official environment and does not reflect the level of professionalism expected of legal practitioners.
Directive Takes Immediate Effect
The circular instructs all affected officers to discontinue the practice with immediate effect, while heads of departments and unit heads have been directed to ensure full compliance across the various divisions of the Supreme Court.
Fresh Move to Strengthen Judicial Ethics
The directive is the latest in a series of measures aimed at reinforcing ethics and professionalism within Nigeria’s judiciary and legal profession, with the Supreme Court urging strict adherence to the new standard.