CJN Bans Use of ‘Barrister’ Title in Supreme Court Official Correspondence

The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, has directed lawyers and court officials to immediately discontinue the use of the title “Barrister” before their names in all official engagements with the Supreme Court.

The directive, which takes immediate effect, is aimed at reinforcing professionalism and ensuring uniformity in official documentation and procedures at Nigeria’s apex court, PulseNets learnt.

Justice Kekere-Ekun noted that the continued use of the title was not in line with the professional standards expected in the operations of the Supreme Court.

PulseNets learnt that the directive affects litigation officers, legal practitioners, court registrars, and every lawyer carrying out official business with the apex court.

The decision was contained in a memorandum dated July 13, 2026, signed by the Chief Registrar of the Supreme Court, Kabir Akanbi, a copy of which was obtained by PulseNets.

According to the circular, the Chief Justice maintained that retaining the title “Barrister” as a prefix does not conform to the level of professionalism the Supreme Court seeks to uphold across its official processes.

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“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 stated.