The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, has directed lawyers, court registrars, litigation staff and other relevant court officials to immediately discontinue the use of the title “Barrister” as a prefix to their names in all official engagements with the Supreme Court of Nigeria.
The directive was conveyed through an official memorandum dated July 13, 2026, and signed by the Chief Registrar of the Supreme Court, Kabir Akanbi, on behalf of the Chief Justice. According to the memorandum, the continued use of “Barrister” as a title before a lawyer’s name is considered inappropriate and inconsistent with the level of professionalism expected within Nigeria’s apex court.
Under the new directive, all affected persons are required to stop using the title “Barrister” in official correspondence, court records, legal documents, identity materials and every other form of official engagement relating to the Supreme Court with immediate effect.
The Chief Justice also instructed Heads of Departments and Unit Heads within the Supreme Court to ensure strict compliance with the directive by all officers under their supervision. The measure is aimed at promoting uniformity, professionalism and higher administrative standards in official court communications and documentation.
The directive specifically applies to official dealings involving the Supreme Court and does not abolish the legal qualification of being called to the Nigerian Bar. Rather, it prohibits the use of “Barrister” as a title preceding a lawyer’s name in official Supreme Court communications and records.
The new policy took effect immediately upon its issuance, making compliance mandatory for all affected legal practitioners and court personnel engaged with the Supreme Court.