Abuja – The Legal Practitioners’ Privileges Committee (LPPC) has released the shortlist of candidates being considered for elevation to the prestigious rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) for the year 2025, naming a total of 72 legal practitioners in the provisional list.
The announcement, which was made public on Wednesday, marks a critical phase in the rigorous selection process for one of the highest honours in Nigeria’s legal profession. The LPPC, chaired by the Chief Justice of Nigeria, is the statutory body responsible for screening and approving lawyers for the SAN title, which is awarded based on exceptional professional distinction, integrity, and contributions to the development of the law.
According to the official notice, the shortlisted candidates comprise both advocates and academics, reflecting the dual pathway through which legal professionals may qualify for the rank. While a significant number of the nominees emerged from active courtroom practice, others were selected from among scholars who have made notable contributions to legal education and jurisprudence in Nigeria.
The LPPC has called on members of the public to submit any petitions or objections concerning the character, conduct, or competence of any of the nominees, as part of its commitment to transparency and accountability in the conferment process. The names will remain in the public domain for a stipulated period to allow for vetting and feedback before the final list is approved.
Once concluded, the successful applicants will join the exclusive league of legal minds recognised as Senior Advocates of Nigeria, a designation that not only confers professional prestige but also grants special privileges within Nigeria’s courts, including the right of first audience.
The SAN title, established under the Legal Practitioners Act, remains one of the most coveted recognitions in the Nigerian legal system, symbolising excellence, dedication, and a record of significant impact within the legal field.