CJN swears in 57 SANs, calls for integrity and reform in justice system

The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, swore in 57 distinguished legal practitioners as Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SAN) at the Supreme Court Complex, Three Arms Zone, Abuja. 

The swearing-in ceremony held on Monday, September 29. 

Among those elevated was Adedayo Gbolahan Adesina, a respected legal practitioner, reform advocate, and co-founder of Oyewole & Adesina, whose career has been marked by excellence in advocacy, judicial reform, and public service. 

Speaking during the special session of the Supreme Court marking the commencement of the 2025/2026 Legal Year, Justice Kekere-Ekun described the conferment of the SAN rank as a moment of “solemn reflection and renewed commitment to the noble calling of justice.” 

She urged the new SANs to uphold the dignity of the rank, warning that the privilege could be withdrawn if abused. 

“This occasion is not merely a celebration of time passing, but a call to take stock, reflect on our challenges and achievements, and recommit ourselves to the ideals of justice, fairness, and service to the Nigerian people,” the CJN said. 

Justice Kekere-Ekun also paid tribute to four eminent jurists who passed away during the last legal year, including former Chief Justice Muhammadu Lawal Uwais and three retired Supreme Court justices. 

She praised their “unwavering commitment to justice” and extended condolences to their families and to the families of judicial staff lost during the year.