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

Chief Justice of Nigeria, Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, has ordered lawyers and court officials to discontinue the use of the title “Barrister” before their names in all official communications and activities involving the Supreme Court.

The directive was conveyed in a memorandum dated July 13 and signed by the Chief Registrar of the Supreme Court, Kabir Akanbi. It was addressed to litigation staff, legal practitioners, court registrars and lawyers attached to the apex court.

According to the circular, the move is aimed at reinforcing professionalism and maintaining the standards expected within Nigeria’s highest court. It stated that using “Barrister” as a prefix to names is not appropriate in official correspondence.

The memo read in part: “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 directive takes immediate effect and applies to all official correspondence, records, documents, identification materials and other formal engagements connected with the Supreme Court.

Justice Kekere-Ekun also instructed heads of departments and unit leaders to ensure strict compliance among officers under their supervision.

While prohibiting the use of “Barrister” as a title, the circular made no reference to the postnominal designation “Esq.” (Esquire), which many Nigerian lawyers continue to use after their names.

The development comes shortly after the Council of Legal Education cautioned aspiring lawyers against wearing legal wigs and gowns or presenting themselves as qualified practitioners before they are officially called to the Nigerian Bar.

The council reiterated that only individuals duly called to the Bar in accordance with the Rules of Professional Conduct are entitled to wear legal regalia, warning that anyone who violates the rule could face disciplinary measures.