The Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, has directed lawyers and court officials to stop using the title “Barrister” as a prefix to their names in all official engagements at the Supreme Court, Peak Newspaper reports.
The directive was conveyed 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” before names is considered inappropriate and inconsistent with the professional standards expected within Nigeria’s apex court.
The directive affects litigation staff, legal practitioners, court registrars, and lawyers.
It requires them to immediately discontinue the use of the title in official correspondence, records, documents, identity materials, and other official engagements.
Justice Kekere-Ekun also directed heads of departments and unit heads to ensure strict compliance with the order among officers under their supervision.
The move forms part of efforts to uphold professionalism and maintain established standards within the Supreme Court.
The development comes weeks after the Council of Legal Education warned prospective lawyers against wearing wigs and gowns or presenting themselves as qualified legal practitioners before being formally called to the Nigerian Bar.
The council had stated that such actions undermine the dignity of the legal profession and could attract disciplinary measures.
