The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, has barred lawyers and court officials from using the title “Barrister” as a prefix to their names during official engagements at the apex court.

The directive, aimed at upholding professional standards, was conveyed in a memorandum dated July 13, 2026. Signed by the Chief Registrar of the Supreme Court, Kabir Akanbi, the circular explicitly states that the restriction takes immediate effect.

THENEWSCREDIT reports that the memo, addressed to legal practitioners, litigation staff, and court registrars, describes the prefix as inappropriate and inconsistent with the professional standards of the nation`s highest 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 document read.

THENEWSCREDIT further gathered the apex court ordered all affected individuals to strip the title from official records, identity materials, and correspondence. To ensure total adherence, the CJN instructed all Heads of Departments and Unit Heads to strictly enforce compliance among their subordinates.

This regulatory tightening follows a recent warning from the Council of Legal Education. The council previously cautioned prospective lawyers against wearing legal regalia or presenting themselves as fully qualified advocates before their formal Call to the Bar, noting that premature use of wigs and gowns undermines the profession`s dignity.