The Chief Judge of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Justice Husseini Baba-Yusuf, on Thursday administered the oath of office to 240 newly appointed notaries public in Abuja.
The appointees, confirmed by the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, took their oath at the Ceremonial Court Hall of the FCT High Court.
Among the new notaries are eight Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SAN), including Jacob Johnson Usman and Chikaosolu Ojukwu, as well as prominent human rights lawyers and public commentators such as Pius Danba Pius, Akintayo Balogun, Bulus Asten, and Muawiya Yunusa.
Pius, a public commentator and solution-driven legal practitioner with over 12 years’ experience in corporate dispute resolution, election matters and corporate practice, told journalists that he is committed to upholding the integrity of the office.
“I will strive to serve the public with impartiality, professionalism and diligence, in accordance with the laws and regulations governing notarial practice in Nigeria,” he said.
Addressing the new notaries, Justice Baba-Yusuf reminded them that the appointment is a mark of trust and a call to higher responsibility.
“This honour comes with heavy responsibilities,” he said. “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 as you discharge your duties.”
He urged the appointees to bring their experience to bear, adding: “Ensure you remain persons of worth and responsibility in the discharge of your functions.”
