The Nigerian legal profession witnessed a historic milestone as the Body of Benchers called 5,725 new lawyers to the Bar during a grand three-day ceremony held from July 8 to 10, 2025, in Abuja. This marks the largest number of lawyers to be called to the Nigerian Bar in a single session in the country’s legal history.

The event, which drew proud families, friends, dignitaries, and members of the legal community, was a culmination of rigorous academic and professional training at the Nigerian Law School. In total, 5,734 candidates were called to the Bar—5,725 of whom passed the June 2025 Bar Final Examinations, while nine were from previous sessions.

It was a moment of immense pride, emotion, and celebration, as many saw years of hard work and sacrifice finally rewarded. However, the joyful occasion was tinged with sorrow, as three aspirants who should have been part of the call tragically passed away in the days leading up to the ceremony. Among them was a candidate named Ibrahim, who died just days before the event.

During the solemn but celebratory call-to-bar ceremony, the Chairman of the Body of Benchers Olukayode Ariwoola administered the formal oath to the new legal practitioners. He reminded them that the privilege to practice law in Nigeria comes with high ethical responsibilities and strict professional expectations.

“The practice of law is not a right; it is a privilege. This privilege can be lost if you fail to live up to the standards imposed upon you,” he cautioned.

The occasion also featured messages of wisdom and caution from senior members of the Bar, who urged the new lawyers to uphold integrity, discipline, and patience in their pursuit of legal excellence and financial success.

“They should not be in a hurry to make wealth. They must maintain the credibility of the profession and learn to say no when clients attempt to cross ethical lines,” one senior lawyer advised.

Following the formalities, emotional scenes of hugs, tears, and gratitude unfolded as new wigs posed for photographs, basked in the moment, and shared in the joy with loved ones. For many parents, it was a dream come true.

“This is my second time here,” said a proud parent. “My first daughter was called in 2016, and now in 2025, my second child is here. I’m very happy.”

“I’m super excited. I’m so thankful to my dad who supported me all the way,” said one of the newly called lawyers, beaming with joy.

As Nigeria grapples with calls for judicial reform and a more credible justice system, many are hopeful that this fresh crop of lawyers will rise to the occasion as agents of positive change.

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