Lagos: A Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Prof. Dorothy Ufot, emphasized the critical role of arbitration as an Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanism for resolving commercial disputes on a global scale. Ufot highlighted the effectiveness and trustworthiness of arbitration, particularly in today’s technology-driven environment, during a media parley at the 10th International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) Africa conference in Lagos.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Ufot, who chairs the Arbitration and ADR Commission of the ICC Africa, noted the significance of international arbitration and Nigeria’s emerging prominence in this field. She expressed concerns about foreign businesses operating in Nigeria, stating that while they are not deterred by societal issues like kidnapping, disputes arising from commercial transactions often lead to resolutions being sought abroad, bypassing local expertise. “We are not chosen to participate in the resolution of the same as they are taken elsewhere. So we say we want to be a part of the resolution, and we have stood up and fought for our rights,” Ufot stated, emphasizing Nigeria’s capabilities in international arbitration.
Ufot further explained that involvement in arbitration processes empowers participants to have a significant say in outcomes. She credited training and attendance at international conferences for preparing Nigerians to take part in global arbitration efforts. The ICC headquarters in Paris has recognized Nigeria’s readiness and competence, choosing it as the host for the 10th ICC African edition.
Co-chair of the conference, Mrs. Chiazor Anishere (SAN), stressed the need for trained arbitrators to manage business disputes efficiently, pointing out the overloaded court system. “Many commercial disputes can easily be settled by the ADR technique,” she remarked, predicting that the conference will further cement Nigeria’s position in commercial dispute resolution.
Mrs. Olubunmi Osuntuyi, Secretary General of ICC Nigeria, announced that over 30 countries are expected to participate in the conference, based on ongoing registrations. The conference is scheduled to take place from June 3 to June 5 in Lagos.