Abuja: The Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI) has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting women’s participation in Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) to enhance business growth for effective economic stability. The President of the chamber, Chief Emeka Obegolu, reaffirmed the commitment on Tuesday in Abuja, at the second edition of the Women in ADR and Business Summit 2026.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the programme was organised by the Nigerian Chamber of Commerce Dispute Resolution Centre (NCC-DRC) of the ACCI, with the theme ‘Women Leading Change in Advancing ADR Excellence and Business Growth’. Obegolu stated that the summit was held to commemorate International Women’s Day and served as a strategic platform for advancing commercial dispute resolution while celebrating the contributions of women in the sector.
Obegolu highlighted that the theme of the programme reflects the growing recognition of women as key drivers of innovation, integrity, and sustainable development in the justice and business ecosystem. He expressed pride in ACCI’s support for initiatives that strengthen ADR as a cornerstone of economic stability and investor confidence. Through the NCC-DRC, ACCI continues to promote efficient, cost-effective, and business-friendly mechanisms for resolving commercial disputes.
The ACCI president noted the significant evolution of women’s roles in ADR, with many now serving as mediators, arbitrators, negotiators, policymakers, and thought leaders. He emphasized that women bring technical expertise, emotional intelligence, ethical clarity, and collaborative leadership, which are essential for building trust and delivering justice in a dynamic commercial environment. Empowering women in ADR, he stated, is not only a matter of equity but a strategic imperative for economic growth.
Obegolu urged stakeholders to create more opportunities for women through mentorship programmes, policy reforms, capacity-building initiatives, and inclusion in leadership roles. He commended women in the sector for their resilience and contributions, noting that they are breaking barriers and paving the way for future generations. He encouraged participants to actively engage in discussions to ensure the summit results in actionable outcomes.
In his remarks, Prince Adetokunbo Kayode, Chairman of ACCI/NCC-DRC, reaffirmed the commitment to advancing dispute resolution excellence while promoting inclusive leadership and capacity development for women across legal and business sectors. Represented by Aisha Abdullahi, Vice President, Legal, ACCI, Kayode highlighted women’s roles as leaders and innovators shaping dispute resolution, emphasizing their growing influence in boardrooms, courtrooms, and negotiations.
Mrs. Hauwa Usman, Registrar General of the NCC-DRC, stated that the centre provides efficient, neutral, and business-oriented mechanisms for resolving commercial disputes within Nigeria and across borders. The objective is to promote alternative dispute resolution methods such as arbitration, mediation, and conciliation, while delivering timely, cost-effective services to businesses and investors. She outlined the centre’s services, including arbitration and mediation administration, policy engagement, stakeholders’ dialogue, and support facilities, while enhancing impact through initiatives like masterclasses and dispute resolution programmes.
Former Chief Justice of the Federal Capital Territory High Court, Isaq Bello, emphasized the programme’s aim to promote training and inclusion of women in ADR.