New directive stops legal practitioners from using the prefix in official Supreme Court dealings
The Chief Justice of Nigeria has banned lawyers and court staff from using the title Barrister as a name prefix. Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun issued the immediate order to ensure professional standards are strictly maintained during all official Supreme Court dealings.
ValidUpdates understands that a major shift has just hit the Nigerian justice system. The Chief Justice of Nigeria has stopped lawyers from adding a popular prefix to their names. Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun wants to enforce strict professionalism within the apex court.
Chief Registrar Kabir Akanbi signed the sweeping circular on July 13, 2026. The new rule takes immediate effect across all court departments.
Strict compliance ordered
Akanbi addressed the strict memo to all litigation staff and court registrars. He explained the exact reason behind the sudden change. Legal practitioners must read the instructions carefully.
”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 memo stated.
The court expects heads of departments to ensure total compliance. Staff members must obey the instruction across their respective units.
Legal qualification facts
Lawyers must drop the prefix on court records and identity materials. The apex court leaves no room for confusion regarding official correspondence. Akanbi clarified the exact scope of the immediate ban.
”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 said.
Every lawyer called to the Nigerian Bar becomes a recognized solicitor. The designation remains a legal qualification rather than a mandatory title.
