Nigeria’s Chief Justice bans use of “Barrister” title by lawyers, others
It was contained in a memorandum dated July 13, 2026, and signed by the Chief Registrar of the Supreme Court, Kabir Akanbi.
Nigeria’s Chief Justice, Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, has directed lawyers and court officials to stop using the title “Barrister” as a prefix to their names in official Supreme Court engagements.
The directive takes immediate effect.
It was contained in a memorandum dated July 13, 2026, and signed by the Chief Registrar of the Supreme Court, Kabir Akanbi.
The circular was addressed to litigation staff, legal practitioners, court registrars and lawyers.
According to the memo, the Chief Justice considers the use of “Barrister” before a person’s name inappropriate within the professional setting of the Supreme Court.
“I am directed by the Honourable 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 inconsistent with the standards of professionalism expected within the Supreme Court of Nigeria,” the memorandum stated.
The directive bars affected persons from using the title in official correspondence, records, documents, identity materials and other formal engagements connected with the court.
“Consequently, all officers concerned are hereby directed to discontinue the use of the title ‘Barrister’ before their names in all official correspondence, records, documents, identity materials, and any other official engagements with immediate effect,” the memo added.
Heads of departments and unit heads have also been instructed to ensure strict compliance among officers under their supervision.
The directive forms part of efforts to maintain professional standards and proper official identification within Nigeria’s apex court.
It comes shortly 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 cautioned that such conduct undermines the dignity of the legal profession and may attract disciplinary action.
It stressed that legal regalia is reserved for persons who have been duly qualified and called to the Bar in accordance with the Rules of Professional Conduct.
