The Supreme Court has directed all lawyers, court officials and litigation staff to discontinue the use of the title “Barrister” as a prefix to their names in all official engagements within the apex court.
The directive, issued on the instruction of the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, was conveyed in a memorandum dated July 13, 2026, and signed by the Chief Registrar of the Supreme Court, Kabir Akanbi.
Addressed to legal practitioners, court registrars, litigation staff and other officers, the memo said the use of “Barrister” before names is inconsistent with the professional standards expected at the Supreme Court.
According to the memorandum, all affected persons are to immediately stop using the title in official correspondence, court records, identity materials, documents and every other form of official engagement.
The circular stated that the move is aimed at reinforcing professionalism and maintaining uniform standards within the nation’s highest court.
To ensure compliance, Heads of Departments and Unit Heads have been directed to enforce the order among officers under their supervision.
The latest directive follows a recent warning by the Council of Legal Education to 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 stressed that legal regalia and the privileges associated with the legal profession are reserved exclusively for duly qualified practitioners, warning that violations could attract disciplinary action.
