RismadarVoice Reporters, June 5, 2026
Africa has been urged to consolidate recent gains in arbitration and Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) by strengthening institutions, deepening collaboration, and building global confidence in its dispute resolution systems.
The President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, made the call at the opening ceremony of the 10th ICC Africa Conference on International Arbitration and ADR, held in Lagos.
Osigwe, who delivered a goodwill message at the event, said Africa is currently at a defining moment in the development of international dispute resolution, noting that arbitration and ADR have moved from emerging concepts to widely accepted tools for resolving complex commercial disputes and attracting investment.
According to him, the growth of arbitral institutions across the continent, as well as the increasing recognition of African practitioners globally, reflects steady progress that must be sustained and expanded.
He said while significant achievements have been recorded, more deliberate efforts are required to position Africa as a preferred destination for international arbitration, stressing the need for continued investment in institutional capacity, adherence to best practices, and stronger stakeholder collaboration.
Osigwe added that Africa already possesses the intellectual and professional capacity required to compete globally in dispute resolution, but emphasised that sustained commitment and innovation are necessary to fully realise that potential.
He also called for greater visibility of Africa’s achievements in arbitration and ADR, noting that the continent’s progress is often underreported despite notable milestones.
The NBA President commended the organisers of the conference for providing a platform for dialogue, knowledge sharing, and policy engagement among legal practitioners, policymakers, and business leaders from across Africa and beyond.
