Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun
The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, on Monday sworn in 68 new Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SANs), reminding them that the prestigious rank comes with greater responsibility and does not place anyone above professional discipline.
Justice Kekere-Ekun gave the charge during a special session of the Supreme Court in Abuja held to mark the commencement of the 2026/2027 Legal Year.
She told the newly elevated Senior Advocates that the honour was more than a reward for professional success. According to her, it is a call to leadership, integrity and service to the legal profession and the nation.
The CJN urged the new SANs to carry themselves with humility, dignity and fairness, adding that they must remain role models for younger lawyers.
She stressed that professional excellence must always be supported by honesty and ethical conduct, noting that public confidence in the legal profession depends largely on the behaviour of its senior members.
Justice Kekere-Ekun warned that the disciplinary actions taken against some senior lawyers during the last Legal Year should serve as a reminder that no professional title protects anyone from sanctions for misconduct.
She said every lawyer, regardless of rank, remains accountable under the rules guiding the legal profession.
The new recipients include 67 legal practitioners and one academic, making a total of 68 lawyers elevated to the prestigious rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria.
Their appointment was approved by the Legal Practitioners’ Privileges Committee (LPPC) at its 174th plenary session held in Abuja on July 23, 2026, under the chairmanship of the Chief Justice of Nigeria.
The LPPC also directed all successful applicants to complete a compulsory induction programme before taking the oath.
The committee further warned them against publishing congratulatory advertisements, goodwill messages or promotional notices relating to their conferment, in line with existing professional rules.
The rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria is one of the highest honours in the country’s legal profession. It is reserved for lawyers and academics who have distinguished themselves through excellence in advocacy, legal scholarship and contributions to the administration of justice.
Legal observers say the CJN’s message reflects growing efforts by the judiciary to strengthen discipline, promote ethical standards and restore public confidence in Nigeria’s justice system.
The newly sworn-in Senior Advocates are expected to use their experience and influence to advance the rule of law, mentor younger lawyers and support reforms that will improve the administration of justice across the country.
