FCT Chief Judge Swears In 240 New Notaries, Calls New Seal A Chapter Where Professionalism Must Be Paramount

The Chief Judge of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Justice Husseini Baba-Yusuf, on Thursday swore in 240 newly appointed notaries public in a ceremony at the Ceremonial Court Hall of the FCT High Court in Maitama, Abuja, marking a major boost to Nigeria’s legal authentication framework.

The appointees, whose nominations were confirmed by the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, gathered at 11:00 a.m. for the solemn proceedings. Among them were eight Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SANs), including Jacob Johnson Usman, Chikaosolu Ojukwu, Pius Danba Pius, Akintayo Balogun, Bulus Asten, Muawiya Yunusa.Their inclusion underscores the high calibre of professionals now empowered to authenticate documents and prevent fraud nationwide.

Reflecting the gravity of the occasion, one of the new notaries affirmed during the oath: “I will strive to serve the public with impartiality, professionalism, and diligence, in accordance with the laws and regulations governing notarial practice in Nigeria.” The pledge echoed the cohort’s collective commitment to uphold integrity in their duties.

Addressing the assembly, Justice Baba-Yusuf emphasized the profound trust placed upon them. “This honour comes with heavy responsibilities,” he stated. “Your duties must be carried out strictly in accordance with the law. It goes beyond the title and the oath-taking ceremony. You must exercise utmost care in discharging your responsibilities.”

He urged the notaries to leverage their expertise for the greater good, adding: “Ensure you remain persons of worth and responsibility in performing your functions.” He described the appointment as “a new seal, a new duty, a new chapter where integrity becomes my signature, and service becomes my silent oath,” capturing the essence of the occasion on December 4, 2025.

Notaries public serve as vital public officials authorized to witness and authenticate documents, administer oaths, and perform other formalities essential to legal and commercial transactions. Their stamp or seal acts as an official endorsement, safeguarding against forgery and ensuring the legitimacy of records a role increasingly critical in Nigeria’s evolving digital and international business landscape.

The ceremony, which drew legal luminaries and stakeholders, highlights the judiciary’s ongoing efforts to expand the cadre of qualified notaries amid rising demands for reliable document verification.

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