ICC Africa summit to spotlight Nigeria’s push for global arbitration hub

The upcoming 10th International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) Africa Conference on International Arbitration and Alternative Dispute Resolution in Lagos is poised to be a significant event for Africa's standing in the global legal community. Scheduled for June 3-5, 2026, the conference is expected to draw legal experts, chief justices, attorneys-general, and business leaders from over 30 countries across Africa, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.

“

Africa had made significant strides in breaking into the global arbitration space after years of exclusion from the resolution of cross-border commercial and investment disputes.

Professor Dorothy Ufot (SAN), Chairman of ICC Nigeria, highlighted the conference's theme, "A Decade of Excellence: Shaping the Future of International Arbitration and ADR in Africa." She noted that the event celebrates Africa's progress in securing a greater role in international arbitration after years of being sidelined in the resolution of cross-border commercial and investment disputes. Ufot pointed out that despite the continent's rich resources, African businesses and disputes were often resolved in foreign jurisdictions like London and Paris, leading to significant economic losses.

“

A Decade of Excellence: Shaping the Future of International Arbitration and ADR in Africa.

Nigeria was selected to host this milestone 10th-anniversary edition by the ICC headquarters in Paris, a decision attributed to the country's consistent track record of successfully organizing previous conferences. Several African nations competed for the hosting rights, but Nigeria's proven ability to deliver successful events ultimately secured its selection.

“

Africa had for many years been excluded from the resolution of disputes arising from investments and commercial activities taking place on the continent despite its enormous natural and economic resources.

The conference aims to provide a platform for reflection on Africa's advancements in international arbitration over the past decade and to strategize for future growth. It underscores Nigeria's push to establish itself as a global arbitration hub, leveraging its experience and influence within the continent to shape the future of dispute resolution.

“

International arbitration is the preferred mechanism for resolving business and investment disputes.