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

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The directive was contained in a memorandum dated July 13, 2026, and signed by the Chief Registrar of the Supreme Court, Kabir Akanbi. Although the circular was issued earlier in the month, it became public on Friday after it was obtained by journalists. The order takes immediate effect and applies to litigation staff, legal practitioners, court registrars and lawyers who work with or appear before the Supreme Court. According to the memo, the use of “Barrister” as a prefix does not reflect the level of professionalism expected at Nigeria’s highest court.

Under the new directive, all affected personnel have been instructed to remove the title from official letters, records, documents, identity cards and every other material used for official purposes, including formal engagements involving the Supreme Court. The Chief Registrar also directed heads of departments and unit heads to ensure strict compliance by monitoring officers under their supervision and implementing the order without delay.