The Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, has directed lawyers, court officials and other staff of the Supreme Court to stop using the title "Barrister" before their names in all official activities and documents connected to the court.
The directive was contained in a memorandum dated July 13, 2026, and signed by the Chief Registrar of the Supreme Court, Kabir Akanbi. Although issued earlier in the month, the memo became public on Friday after it was seen by journalists.
According to the circular, the decision takes immediate effect and applies to litigation staff, legal practitioners, court registrars and lawyers who work with or appear before the Supreme Court.
The memo stated that using "Barrister" as a prefix to names does not meet the level of professionalism expected within the country's highest court.
As part of the new order, all affected persons have been instructed to remove the title from official letters, records, documents, identity cards and every other material used for official purposes.
The directive also covers all formal engagements involving the Supreme Court.
To ensure the order is fully carried out, heads of departments and unit heads have been directed to monitor compliance among officers under their supervision.
They are expected to make sure all staff follow the new instruction without delay.
The development comes only a few weeks after the Council of Legal Education warned prospective lawyers against wearing wigs and gowns or presenting themselves as qualified legal practitioners before they are officially called to the Nigerian Bar.
The council had said such actions lower the standard of the legal profession and warned that anyone who ignores the rule could face disciplinary action.
It also reminded candidates that legal robes and other professional regalia are reserved only for lawyers who have been formally called to the Bar under the Rules of Professional Conduct.
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