The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, has directed legal practitioners and court officials to discontinue the use of the title “Barrister” in all official dealings with the Supreme Court.

The directive takes immediate effect and forms part of measures aimed at promoting professionalism and ensuring uniformity in the apex court’s official records and correspondence.

According to the directive, the use of “Barrister” as a prefix before the names of lawyers is no longer considered consistent with the professional standards the Supreme Court seeks to maintain.

The order applies to all lawyers appearing before the Supreme Court, litigation officers, court registrars and other officials involved in the court’s administrative and judicial processes.

The decision was communicated through a circular dated July 13, 2026, signed by the Chief Registrar of the Supreme Court, Kabir Akanbi.

The circular instructed all affected officers to immediately remove the title from official correspondence, court records, identity materials and every other document or engagement connected with the Supreme Court.

The move is expected to standardise official documentation and reinforce the court’s commitment to professionalism in its operations.