LPPC Elevates 68 Lawyers to Senior Advocate of Nigeria Rank

One of the Largest Batches on Record

The Legal Practitioners' Privileges Committee approved the elevation of 68 legal practitioners to the prestigious rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria at its 174th Plenary Session, held in Abuja on Thursday, July 23, 2026, under the chairmanship of the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun. Of the 68 names approved, 67 are practicing advocates and one is an academic, Professor Nnamdi Onyeka Obiaraeri, the sole scholar recognised in this year's exercise. The announcement was made by Kabir Akanbi, Chief Registrar of the Supreme Court of Nigeria and Secretary of the LPPC. Conferment is ordinarily capped at fewer than 30 advocates a year, but the figure has climbed in recent cycles, following 57 elevations in both 2023 and 2025, making this year's 68 one of the largest batches since the rank was introduced in 1975.

Four Women Make the List

Among the newly elevated advocates are four women: Soibi Ideriah Ovia, Igonikon Abiola Adekunle, Olujoke Enitan Alius, and Olamide Mojigbotoluwa Adekunle. The rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria is conferred on legal practitioners of not less than ten years' standing who have demonstrated outstanding distinction either as advocates in the courts or as academics contributing to legal scholarship. It remains widely regarded as the highest professional honour available within the Nigerian Bar.

Next Steps Before Conferment

Approval by the LPPC does not immediately confer the title. In line with directives from the Body of Senior Advocates of Nigeria, all shortlisted candidates are required to attend and complete a mandatory Pre-Swearing-In Induction Programme before formal conferment. The Swearing-In Ceremony for the 68 successful applicants has been scheduled for Monday, October 12, 2026, when the new Senior Advocates will be formally called to the rank.