Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, has sworn in 68 legal practitioners as Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SANs) at a ceremony marking the commencement of the 2026/2027 legal year.
The ceremony took place on Monday at the Supreme Court complex in Abuja, bringing together members of the judiciary and the legal profession to mark the opening of the new legal year.The newly elevated recipients comprise 67 legal practitioners and one academic, Professor Nnamdi Onyeka Obiaraeri, who was recognised for his contributions to legal scholarship.
Their elevation followed approval by the Legal Practitioners’ Privileges Committee (LPPC) at its 174th plenary session held in Abuja in July, under the chairmanship of Justice Kekere-Ekun.During the ceremony, the CJN charged the newly conferred Senior Advocates to uphold professional integrity, maintain high ethical standards and demonstrate responsibility in the discharge of their duties.She cautioned that attaining the prestigious rank did not place its holders above accountability, stressing that professional distinction must be accompanied by integrity and respect for the rules governing legal practice.Justice Kekere-Ekun also pointed to disciplinary actions involving senior members of the Bar as a reminder that no professional rank could serve as a substitute for ethical conduct.
The rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria is one of the highest distinctions in the country’s legal profession. It is conferred on practitioners who have demonstrated exceptional ability and distinction in legal practice, particularly advocacy, while academics may also be recognised for outstanding contributions to legal scholarship.
The elevation is widely regarded as a significant milestone in the careers of successful recipients, reflecting their standing and contributions to the development of law in Nigeria.The 68 new SANs are expected to uphold the standards associated with the rank and contribute to strengthening professional ethics, improving the administration of justice and advancing the legal profession.
The commencement of the 2026/2027 legal year also provides an opportunity for the judiciary to reflect on its performance, address challenges affecting justice delivery and consider measures to improve the administration of justice across the country.Yahoo Mail: Search, organise, conquer
