CJN Justice Kudirat Bans Use of ‘Barrister’ Title in Supreme Court Official Communications
The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, has instructed lawyers, court officials, and litigation staff to stop using the title “Barrister” as a prefix to their names in all official communications at the Supreme Court.
The order, which is effective immediately, was issued in a memorandum dated July 13, 2026, and signed by the Chief Registrar of the Supreme Court, Kabir Akanbi.
According to the circular, the use of the title “Barrister” in official correspondence and court-related documents is inconsistent with the professional standards expected within Nigeria’s highest court.
“I am directed by the Honorable the Chief Justice of Nigeria to notify all Litigation Staff, Legal Practitioners, Court Registrars, and Lawyers that the use of the title ‘Barrister’ as a prefix to names is inappropriate and does not align with the professionalism standards expected in the Supreme Court of Nigeria,” the memorandum stated.
The directive mandates all involved officers to immediately cease using the title in official correspondence, records, documents, identity materials, and any other official engagement connected with the Supreme Court.
To ensure strict compliance, the Chief Justice also directed departmental heads and unit managers to enforce the directive among their staff.
This development is part of ongoing efforts to strengthen professional ethics within Nigeria’s legal system.
It follows weeks after the Council of Legal Education warned prospective lawyers against wearing wigs and gowns or presenting themselves as qualified legal practitioners before being officially called to the Nigerian Bar.
The council cautioned that such conduct damages the integrity of the legal profession and may lead to disciplinary measures, emphasizing that legal regalia are strictly reserved for duly qualified practitioners under the Rules of Professional Conduct.
