4,437 Lawyers Called to Bar as Ariwoola Urges Integrity, Warns Against Misconduct

A total of 4,437 new lawyers were formally admitted to the Nigerian Bar on Tuesday, with former Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) and Chairman of the Body of Benchers, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, warning them to uphold the highest standards of professional ethics.

Speaking at the 2025 Call to Bar ceremony in Abuja, Ariwoola described the occasion as both a celebration and a solemn responsibility. He urged the new lawyers to practice law with integrity, diligence, and devotion to justice.

“You must go forth in your new wigs from this day forward to serve Nigeria and humanity in justice, without fear or favour, affection or ill will,” Ariwoola said. “The practice of law is a privilege, not a right. Any act of indiscipline or professional misconduct will not be tolerated.”

He further charged the new lawyers to safeguard the nobility of the profession, noting that society holds legal practitioners to a higher standard. “Our noble profession is built on honour. It is your duty to preserve it. Do not undermine the confidence reposed in you by the public,” he added.

Earlier, the Director-General of the Nigerian Law School, Prof. Isa Hayatu Chiroma, SAN, presented the successful candidates for admission, confirming that 4,429 passed the June 2025 Bar Final Examinations, while eight were carried over from previous sessions.

A breakdown of results showed 72 candidates graduating with First Class, 608 with Second Class Upper, 2,098 with Second Class Lower, and 1,651 with a Pass. Chiroma emphasized the Law School’s pivotal role in producing judges, attorneys-general, and legal practitioners who have distinguished themselves nationally and internationally.

“Together with our staff, we have closely monitored these aspirants. I attest that they are men and women of learning and character, and are fit and proper to be admitted to the Nigerian Bar,” he said.

The Call to Bar ceremony reaffirms the commitment of the Nigerian legal system to raising highly qualified professionals, equipped to serve the country with honour and integrity.