Ariwoola, who chairs the Body of Benchers, spoke in Abuja on
Thursday at the 2025 call to bar ceremony.

The former CJN reminded the “new wigs” that their admission
into the profession was both a privilege and a lifelong responsibility to serve
with integrity.

“You must go forth in your new wigs from this day forward to
serve Nigeria and humanity in justice, without fear or favour, affection or ill
will,” he said.

“The practice of law is a privilege, not a right. You must
be honest, diligent and devoted to justice at all times. Any act of
indiscipline or professional misconduct will not be condoned.”

He noted that the nobility of the legal profession depends
on lawyers maintaining public trust.

“Our noble profession is built on honour. It is your duty to
preserve it. Do not undermine the confidence reposed in you by the public,”
Ariwoola added.

This year’s call to bar ceremony spanned three days—Tuesday
through Thursday—with 4,437 lawyers admitted. Of the total, 4,429 were
successful in the June 2025 bar final examinations, while eight were from
previous sessions.

According to the Nigerian Law School, 72 candidates
graduated with first-class honours, 608 with second-class upper, 2,098 with
second-class lower, and 1,651 with pass grades.

Isa Chiroma, the director-general of the Law School, said
the institution remains committed to grooming lawyers of character and
competence.

“Together with our staff, we have closely monitored these
aspirants. I attest that they are men and women of learning and character and
are fit and proper to be admitted to the Nigerian Bar,” Ciroma said.