Supreme Court Bans Lawyers from Using “Barrister” as a Prefix
The Supreme Court has directed lawyers across Nigeria to stop using the title “Barrister” before their names in all official correspondence and engagements with the apex court.
The directive was issued by the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, through an internal memorandum dated July 13, 2026, and signed by the Chief Registrar of the Supreme Court, Kabir E. Akanbi.
The circular, addressed to litigation staff, legal practitioners, court registrars and lawyers, was titled “Prohibition of the Use of the Title Barrister as a Prefix to Names.”
According to the memo, the continued use of the title is considered inappropriate and does not align with the level of professionalism expected at the Supreme Court.
The directive stated:
“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.”
As a result, all affected persons have been instructed to stop using the title before their names in official letters, court records, documents, identity materials and any other formal dealings with the Supreme Court with immediate effect.
The Chief Justice also directed heads of departments and unit heads to ensure that everyone under their supervision complies fully with the new directive.
The memo further stressed that supervisory officers would be responsible for enforcing compliance across all relevant offices.
