BREAKING: CJN bans Nigerian lawyers from using ‘Barrister’ title with immediate effect

The Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, has directed lawyers and court officials to immediately stop using the title “Barrister” before their names in all official dealings with the Supreme Court.

The directive, which takes immediate effect, was issued as part of efforts to strengthen professionalism and standardise official documentation at the nation’s apex court.

Justice Kekere-Ekun said the practice was inconsistent with the professional standards expected in the Supreme Court.

The directive applies to litigation staff, legal practitioners, court registrars and all lawyers conducting official business with the apex court.

The decision was conveyed in a memorandum dated July 13, 2026, signed by the Chief Registrar of the Supreme Court, Kabir Akanbi.

According to the circular, the Chief Justice held that the continued use of “Barrister” as a prefix does not align with the level of professionalism the Supreme Court seeks to uphold in its official processes.

“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 stated.