LPPC Approves 68 Lawyers for Senior Advocate Rank; Swearing-In Set for October

The Legal Practitioners’ Privileges Committee (LPPC) has approved the elevation of 68 legal practitioners to the prestigious rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN).

The decision was finalized during the committee’s 174th plenary session, chaired by the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun.

Out of the 68 successful candidates, 67 were elevated under the advocate category, while Prof. Nnamdi Onyeka Obiaraeri, a Professor of International Law and Jurisprudence at Imo State University, emerged as the sole successful academic applicant.

Prominent legal practitioners approved for the rank include Adebayo Adaralegbe, Lead Partner at NINEWELLS Law Practice and energy law expert; Alexander Nduka Muoka; Adenrele Adegborioye; Adebayo Folorunsho Ologe; Jimson Ejovi Okodaso; Philemon Audu Daffi; Emmanuel Akunke Akomaye; Akorede Habeeb Lawal; and Olawale Sunday Fapohunda, alongside 58 others.

In a statement issued by the Chief Registrar of the Supreme Court and LPPC Secretary, Kabir Akanbi, the committee announced that the swearing-in ceremony for all 68 candidates will take place on October 12, 2026. Prior to the formal inauguration, all shortlisted lawyers must complete a mandatory pre-swearing-in induction programme.

The LPPC issued a stern directive warning successful candidates against publishing or encouraging congratulatory advertisements, goodwill notices, or media announcements regarding their nomination. The committee noted that non-compliance violates Paragraph 25(1) of the Legal Practitioners’ Privileges Guidelines and Rule 39(3) of the Rules of Professional Conduct, 2023, and may result in disciplinary sanctions or withdrawal of the honor.

The SAN rank represents the highest distinction in the Nigerian legal profession, awarded to advocates and academics who have demonstrated exceptional distinction, integrity, and major contributions to legal practice or scholarship.