The Legal Practitioners’ Privileges Committee (LPPC), chaired by the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, has officially approved the conferment of the prestigious rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) on 87 distinguished legal practitioners. This announcement was made in a statement signed by the Chief Registrar of the Supreme Court and Secretary of the LPPC, Hajo Sarki Bello.
The highly anticipated swearing-in ceremony for these newly recognized Senior Advocates is scheduled to take place on Monday, September 30, 2024. This event marks a significant milestone in the legal careers of the honorees, recognizing their exceptional contributions to the legal profession in Nigeria.
The decision to confer this honor follows the LPPC’s 164th plenary session, where five separate petitions against some of the applicants were meticulously reviewed. After thorough consideration, the committee concluded that none of the petitions held merit, leading to their dismissal. This rigorous vetting process underscores the LPPC’s commitment to maintaining the integrity and high standards associated with the rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria.
Among the newly appointed SANs are some prominent figures in the legal community, including Monday Ubani, a former Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association Section on Public Interest and Development Law (NBA-SPIDEL); Deremi Oguntoye; Chukwudi Enebeli; Wendy Kuku; and Mofesomo Tayo-Oyetibo. Each of these individuals has demonstrated exceptional legal acumen and dedication to the advancement of justice in Nigeria.
In addition to the practitioners from the bar, this year’s list also includes one academic, Prof. Ganiu Adeyemi, who has been recognized for his significant contributions to legal scholarship. The inclusion of an academic in the ranks of SANs highlights the importance of academic excellence and its impact on the legal profession.
The conferment of the rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria is one of the highest honors in the Nigerian legal system, symbolizing a mark of distinction and a recognition of professional excellence. It is awarded to legal practitioners who have made substantial contributions to the development of the legal profession through practice, academic work, or public service.
As the date for the swearing-in ceremony approaches, the legal community eagerly anticipates celebrating these newly minted Senior Advocates, whose achievements are expected to inspire both their peers and the next generation of lawyers in Nigeria.
