Abuja – The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, has directed lawyers, court registrars, and litigation staff to stop using the title "Barrister" as a prefix to their names in all official dealings with the Supreme Court.

The directive, which takes immediate effect, was conveyed in a circular dated July 13, 2026, and signed by the Chief Registrar of the Supreme Court, Kabir Akanbi.

According to the circular, the use of "Barrister" as a title before names is inconsistent with the professional standards expected at Nigeria's apex court. The order applies to all legal practitioners, litigation staff, court registrars, and lawyers conducting official business with the Supreme Court.

The memo further stated that the title should no longer appear in official correspondence, court records, legal documents, identity materials, or any other official engagements with the court.

Heads of departments and unit heads have also been instructed to ensure strict compliance with the directive across their respective units.

Although every lawyer called to the Nigerian Bar is enrolled as a Barrister and Solicitor of the Supreme Court of Nigeria, the circular clarified that the designation forms part of a lawyer's legal qualification rather than a mandatory official title. Consequently, the use of "Barrister" as a prefix in official Supreme Court communications has been discontinued with immediate effect.