THE LANDSCAPE OF ALTERNATIVE DISPUTE RESOLUTION PRACTICE AND PROGRESSION IN NIGERIA

Abstract

Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) encompasses all legally-permitted processes of dispute resolution other than litigation. In Nigeria, ADR is historically rooted in traditional, pre-colonial African practices of Arbitration, Mediation, Negotiation, Conciliation, resolved by experienced elders and respected community leaders in resolving dispute to maintain social harmony. This paper explores the practical features, development and progression of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) procedures in Nigeria and some other countries in resolving legal disputes globally. The paper traced the origin and identified various types of ADR, their relevance in contemporary legal practice. The paper made major findings with respect to Nigeria’s progress in institutionalizing ADR, while also exposing areas for inclusivity in ADR efficiency, awareness and need for further legislative reforms. The paper recommended that Nigeria should enact a unified ADR Act to consolidate all the gains of previous legislative reforms which would remove inconsistencies and ensure uniform standards across all states and institutions.