June 1 (THEWILL) — Jurists and Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) practitioners have called for deeper institutionalisation of ADR frameworks within Nigeria’s justice administration system as part of measures to decongest courts, accelerate dispute resolution and enhance access to justice across the country.
According to them, over the past few decades, ADR has evolved from being an alternative mechanism to becoming an indispensable pillar of access to justice.
They made the recommendation during the induction ceremony organised by the Institute of Alternative Dispute Resolution Development and Conflict Management of Nigeria (iADRNIGERIA) to usher in newly accredited Associates, Members and Fellows into the Institute.
The new inductees, comprising 116 Associates, 33 Members and 117 Fellows, were ushered into the fold in a colourful ceremony held Saturday, 30th May, 2026, at the Oriental Hotel in Lagos.
In her opening remarks, the chairperson at the induction ceremony and Justice of the Supreme Court of Nigeria, Honourable Helen Moronkeji Ogunwumiju, stated that the gathering is not a mere formal rite but, in every material sense, a solemn affirmation of the Institute’s commitment to the advancement of justice; justice that is accessible, efficient, culturally attuned and responsive to the evolving needs of the society.
On the significance of the induction, Hon Moronkeji Ogunwumiju said, “The conferment of the fellowship, membership, and associationalship within this Institute is both an honour and an obligation. It is an honour because it reflects distinction, professional attainment, and peer recognition. It is an obligation because it calls for continued services in the promotion of peace, order and justice.”
She further emphasised that ADR has, over time, assumed a central place within Nigeria’s justice delivery system, adding that “The pressures on conventional litigation, manifested in delays, procedural complexities and cost implications, have necessitated a complementary.”
In his address, President and Chairman of the Governing Council of iADRNIGERIA, Prof Akinola Ibidapo-Obe, congratulated all the inductees, stating that the occasion marks another significant milestone in the journey of the Institute as they are formally admitted into the Institute.
Stating that conflict is an inevitable feature of human interaction, Prof Ibidapo-Obe advised the new inductees to maintain the highest ethical standards.
“Among you are distinguished professionals who have excelled in public service, private enterprise, academia, legal practice, traditional leadership, engineering, accountancy, corporate management and governance. Your induction signifies recognition of your achievements. More importantly, it signifies your commitment to uphold the values and objectives of the Institute.”
In her Keynote Address delivered at the event, Hon Justice Abimbola Osarugue Obaseki-Adejumo reasoned that in Nigeria today, where commercial activity is expanding and entrepreneurship is thriving, disputes are inevitable. She, however, added that how these disputes are resolved will determine whether they become obstacles or opportunities for progress.
In the address titled “Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR): Bridging Justice and Business Efficiency In Nigeria”, Hon Obaseki-Adejumo emphasised that in a country like Nigeria, with its dynamic economy and diverse commercial landscape, ADR is not merely useful but essential.
On why ADR matters in Nigeria, she stated that “a contract dispute that lingers in court for years can cripple operations, discourage investors and erode trust. ADR offers speed, cost efficiency, confidentiality and flexibility.”
Advising the new inductees, Registrar of the Institute, Mrs Chinyere Onuorah, urged new members to take ADR to a higher level.
“I advise the new inductees to take the Institute to a higher level. They should create justice and peace so that our society will be like the days of the old.”
New inductees who were admitted into the fold expressed joy over the induction.
An Associate Professor of Law and Dean, Faculty of Law, Crescent University, Abeokuta, Ogun State, Dr Saliu Ojo Jimoh said: “It is marvellous, special and very unique. After the rigorous training, I prayed to witness this day. I thank God that I am part of it.”
Engr. Andrew Odibelu, who was inducted into the Member Cadre, equally expressed joy saying, “I feel excited having been inducted into the prestigious. It has given me the opportunity to practice and mediate in conflicts. I now understand the difference between conflicts and crises.”
To Barrister David Olufemi, another inductee in the Member Cadre, the induction is a dream come true. He said, “It has been a wonderful programme for me. It affords me more professional knowledge, and I encourage others to participate in the programme like others.”
As part of the ceremony, different categories of awards were given to their members at the Fellows cadre, Members cadre and Associates cadre. Some of the awardees include: Miriam Ujuaku Enendu, Engr Nnamdi Ezeifedi, Ndubuisi Nwosu, Olorunmola Tobalesi, Ijeoma Osuagwu, Peace Chidi, Polycarp Ndidi and others.
Janefrances Ebere Chibuzor is a Tourism Writer at THEWILL
