[DOWNLOAD] ‘Nigeria Launches National Arbitration, ADR Policy’ – 2024 Initiative Tackles Challenges, Aligns With Global Treaties

The Federal Government of Nigeria has unveiled the National Policy on Arbitration and Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) 2024, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at positioning Nigeria as a leading hub for arbitration and ADR in Africa and beyond.

The policy, approved by the Federal Executive Council (FEC) on July 15, 2024, seeks to address longstanding challenges in Nigeria’s arbitration system, including inadequate infrastructure, lack of confidence in the system, and underdeveloped institutions.

In his foreword to the policy, the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef O. Fagbemi, SAN, emphasized the importance of the policy in transforming Nigeria’s legal and commercial landscape. He noted that the policy aligns with Nigeria’s international treaty obligations, including the UNCITRAL Model Arbitration Law, the New York Convention, and the Singapore Convention, and aims to foster a culture of fair, efficient, and effective dispute resolution.

“This policy represents a significant stride towards enhancing the legal and commercial landscape in Nigeria, positioning our nation as a leading hub for arbitration both regionally and internationally,” Fagbemi stated.

The National Policy on Arbitration and ADR 2024 is designed to:

The policy outlines several key interventions, including:

The policy will be implemented over five years, with regular reviews to adapt to emerging trends in arbitration and ADR. An Advisory Council comprising arbitration experts, ADR practitioners, and the President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) will monitor and evaluate the policy’s implementation.

To ensure the success of the policy, the Federal and State governments have committed to:

The National Policy on Arbitration and ADR 2024 marks a significant milestone in Nigeria’s efforts to enhance its legal framework and attract foreign investment.