Chukwu Obinna 
President Bola Tinubu
ABUJA, Nigeria – President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has submitted the Legal Practitioners Bill 2025 to the Senate, launching what officials describe as the most sweeping reform of Nigeria’s legal profession in more than 60 years.
The Presidency said on Wednesday that the bill introduces stronger rules on ethics, licensing, training and professional discipline. Senate President Godswill Akpabio read the communication during plenary.
Tinubu said the current Legal Practitioners Act—first enacted in 1962 and last codified in 2004—can no longer support the demands of modern legal practice.
“It will provide reforms that enhance professional standards, strengthen disciplinary mechanisms, and rebuild public trust in legal services,” he said.
The bill proposes a modernised regulatory framework prioritising integrity, accountability and protection of the public interest. It also creates a new statutory body to oversee admissions into the profession and enforce ethical compliance.
Other key provisions include a strengthened Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee, with expanded powers to investigate misconduct. Sanctions will range from reprimands to suspension and removal from the roll.
The proposal mandates a two-year Post-Professional Legal Internship for new entrants and compulsory Continuing Professional Development for all practicing lawyers.
Law offices will undergo accreditation and inspection, with practice licences, official seals and compliance stamps required to ensure authenticity and standardisation.
According to the Presidency, the bill responds to emerging challenges in licensing, professional conduct and global compliance as Nigeria’s legal sector expands its international footprint.
Tinubu urged the Senate to give the reforms accelerated consideration.
During plenary, Akpabio also read a separate communication from First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu inviting senators to a dinner at the Presidential Villa on Friday — an invitation Akpabio described as a motherly gesture.
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Oluwatobi Adu 
Korede Abdullah 
Koko Maxwella