Changes In Nigerian Legal Titles: ‘Barrister’ Usage Restricted

Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, the Chief Justice of Nigeria, has ordered attorneys and court employees to cease prefixing their names with “Barrister” in all official Supreme Court interactions.

The Chief Registrar of the Supreme Court, Kabir Akanbi, signed a memorandum dated July 13, 2026, which contained the directive.

The circular, which was addressed to litigation staff, attorneys, court registrars, and legal professionals, stated that the order went into effect right away and was a component of the apex court’s efforts to maintain professional standards.

The memorandum which was sighted on Friday read, “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.”

“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.”

“Heads of Departments and Unit Heads are requested to ensure strict compliance with this directive by all officers under their supervision. Please be guided accordingly.”

The directive was issued weeks after the Council of Legal Education warned aspiring attorneys not to present themselves as qualified attorneys or wear wigs and gowns before being formally called to the Nigerian Bar.

The council warned that infractions could result in disciplinary action, claiming that such behavior diminished the honor of the legal profession.

Additionally, it reminded candidates that only properly qualified attorneys are permitted to wear legal regalia, which is governed by the Rules of Professional Conduct.