CJN Swears In 68 New Senior Advocates of Nigeria

The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, has sworn in 68 legal practitioners as Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SANs) at the ceremony marking the commencement of the 2026/2027 legal year.

The swearing-in ceremony took place on Monday, October 12, at the Supreme Court in Abuja, formally admitting the successful candidates into one of the highest professional ranks in Nigeria’s legal profession.

The Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) announced the development in a news flash on its official X account, accompanied by photographs and video footage of the ceremony.

The new SANs comprise 67 legal practitioners recognised for their advocacy and one academic, Professor Nnamdi Onyeka Obiaraeri, who was selected in recognition of his contributions to legal scholarship.

The Legal Practitioners’ Privileges Committee (LPPC), chaired by the Chief Justice of Nigeria, approved the 68 candidates during its 174th plenary session held in July 2026.

According to the committee, the rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria is conferred on legal practitioners who have demonstrated exceptional distinction in courtroom advocacy or made significant contributions to the development of legal scholarship.

The elevation process requires successful candidates to complete a mandatory pre-swearing-in induction programme before their formal admission to the rank.

The SAN title represents a significant professional recognition within Nigeria’s legal system, reflecting the recipients’ achievements and standing in the legal profession.

The newly sworn-in advocates are expected to uphold the highest standards of professional conduct, integrity and ethical responsibility in their practice. Their responsibilities also include contributing to the development of legal practice and the administration of justice.

The conferment follows the conclusion of the 2026 selection exercise, which attracted applications from legal practitioners seeking recognition for their professional achievements and contributions to the justice system.

The commencement of the 2026/2027 legal year provides an opportunity for the judiciary and legal practitioners to resume annual activities and reflect on the administration of justice in the country.

The ceremony formally marks the admission of the 68 recipients into the senior rank of the Nigerian Bar, bringing the selection and induction process to completion.