By Victor Nwegede, Abakaliki
An Ebonyi-based legal practitioner, Barrister Alfred Nwizi, has been formally admitted into the prestigious cadre of Notaries Public of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, following the administration of the oath of office on behalf of the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN).
The oath was administered by the Chief Judge of Ebonyi State, Hon. Justice Elvis Anagu Ngene, at a solemn ceremony held at the High Court Complex in Abakaliki. The investiture, conducted with judicial formality and procedural precision, underscores the significance of the office as provided under the Notaries Public Act.
The conferment marks a major milestone in Nwizi’s legal career, placing him among a select group of practitioners entrusted with quasi-judicial responsibilities, including the authentication of legal documents, administration of oaths, and certification of instruments for both local and international use.
Speaking with journalists shortly after the ceremony, Nwizi described the honour as both a professional achievement and a call to higher responsibility. He noted that the role of a Notary Public requires strict adherence to legal standards, ethical conduct, and diligence.
A Notary Public is vested with the authority to authenticate legal instruments, administer oaths and affirmations, and attest to the execution of documents for both domestic and international use. These functions demand not only legal competence but also the highest standards of integrity, circumspection, and accountability,” he said.
Nwizi, who is the Principal of Alfred N. Nwizi Law Firm in Abakaliki and currently serves as Secretary of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Abakaliki Branch, revealed that his appointment followed a rigorous vetting process. According to him, the process included verification of professional standing, years of post-call experience, regulatory compliance, and proof of maintaining an independent legal practice.
He explained that eligibility for appointment as a Notary Public is anchored on a minimum of seven years post-call experience, demonstrable competence, continuous legal development, and evidence of good character.
Highlighting the regulatory framework guiding notarial practice, Nwizi cautioned practitioners to exercise due diligence in handling documents presented for notarisation. He warned that any breach of duty could attract disciplinary actions, including suspension or revocation of the notarial commission.
He further stressed the global relevance of notarial acts, noting that notarised documents are widely recognised across jurisdictions and play a critical role in facilitating cross-border legal, commercial, and diplomatic transactions.
In a message to younger lawyers, Nwizi urged commitment to professional ethics, continuous learning, and perseverance, stressing that success in the legal profession is largely merit-based.
This conferment transcends titular recognition; it is a weighty responsibility. Young practitioners must remain disciplined, uphold the nobility of the profession, and invest in their growth. With dedication and integrity, such milestones are attainable,” he advised.
With his elevation, Nwizi now assumes the status of an officer of the Supreme Court of Nigeria, with powers strictly defined by law to carry out notarial functions within a regulated framework.
