By Terna Chikpa, Jalingo
Taraba State Chief Judge, Justice Joel Agya, has charged newly sworn-in Notaries Public in the state to discharge their duties with honour, precision, and utmost integrity, noting that the office carries global trust and legal significance.
Justice Agya gave the charge on Monday in Jalingo while swearing in six newly appointed Notaries Public.
Those sworn in include the Secretary to the Taraba State Government, Chief Barr. Timothy Kataps; Barr. Martins Milkman, Chairman of the Taraba State NBA; Barr. Nasiru Muhammad; Barr. B.A. Dauda Kura; Barr. Benson Vaatsav; and Barr. Danjuma Sani Nuhu.
The Chief Judge described the notarial office as a solemn and demanding responsibility that requires impeccable character and adherence to professional ethics.
“The appointment of a Notary is never routine. It is a solemn investiture that demands impeccable character, sound judgment, and unwavering adherence to ethical standards,” he said.
He emphasized the global relevance of the role, noting that notaries serve as impartial witnesses, authenticate documents, and facilitate cross-border transactions that depend on the credibility of the justice system.
“The office of a Notary Public is one of trust, integrity, and global relevance. Their seal and signature carry evidential weight not only within Nigeria but across jurisdictions,” Justice Agya added.
Charging the new appointees, he said: “I encourage and charge you to serve with honour, serve with precision, and with integrity.”
Justice Agya also urged the Notaries to strictly comply with the Notary Public Act 2023 and all relevant professional regulations.
“Your selection by the Honourable Chief Justice of Nigeria is an affirmation of your competence and standing at the Bar. Yet it is also a reminder that the public and international community rely on your diligence and professional honour. You must therefore conduct your duties with fairness, accuracy, confidentiality, and strict adherence to the law.”
He noted that their work will support commerce, protect the vulnerable, and ensure that documents originating from Taraba State meet global standards of authenticity.
The Chief Judge further appealed to the wider legal community to uphold professionalism, stating:
“The administration of justice depends not only on courts and judges but on all who hold statutory offices within the legal ecosystem.”
Earlier, Taraba State NBA Chairman, Barr. Martins Milkman, described the ceremony as a testament to the growing visibility, credibility, and professional excellence of the NBA Jalingo Branch.
He commended Justice Agya for his consistent support to the Bar, saying “his unwavering commitment has strengthened legal practice in Taraba State.”
Milkman added that the privilege granted to the new Notaries should inspire them to uphold the highest standards of integrity and service.
Responding on behalf of the appointees, Chief Barr. G.T. Kataps expressed gratitude to the Chief Judge for his commitment to strengthening the state’s legal system.
He assured that the Notaries would discharge their responsibilities in full compliance with the law.
“We will act in accordance with the provisions of the law in the course of performing our duties,” Kataps pledged.
