A prominent rights activist, Chief Nengi James-Eriworio, has emphasized the importance of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) in promoting peace, progress, and prosperity in the Niger Delta region. In his recent article, James-Eriworio highlighted the rapidly changing world, marked by technological advancements, resource scarcity, and increasing social and economic interactions, which has made conflict inevitable. However, he stressed that conflict need not lead to crisis.
James-Eriworio, Chairman of the Nigeria Institute of Chartered Arbitrators, Bayelsa State branch, noted that the traditions of dialogue, mediation, and restorative justice among the Nembe and Ijaw people demonstrate that lasting justice can be achieved through conversation rather than confrontation. He described ADR, which includes negotiation, mediation, conciliation, and arbitration, as no longer merely an alternative to litigation but an essential foundation for a just, inclusive, and peaceful society.
The activist explained that negotiation involves the exchange of interests, mediation provides guided dialogue, conciliation seeks to heal divisions, and arbitration offers fair and binding decisions by trusted experts. He emphasized that ADR is particularly crucial in the Niger Delta, where disputes over resources, land, and development agreements often require urgent resolution. Prolonged litigation, he warned, could delay development and deepen mistrust.
James-Eriworio highlighted the success of ADR in promoting timely settlements while preserving relationships among individuals, communities, and institutions through the Nengi James Foundation and other advocacy efforts. He noted that ADR allows disputes to be resolved with attention to cultural realities and specialized expertise, while arbitration can benefit from international enforcement mechanisms such as the New York Convention.
The peace advocate called for stronger ADR standards and training, better enforcement of mediated settlements, and greater participation of women, youths, and rural communities. He emphasized that ADR should serve everyone, not only the privileged. This, he believes, will ensure that the benefits of ADR are equitably distributed and that it becomes an integral part of the region's conflict resolution mechanisms.
James-Eriworio's advocacy for ADR is particularly relevant in the Niger Delta, where conflicts over resources and land have been a longstanding challenge. His efforts aim to promote a culture of dialogue and peaceful resolution of disputes, which is essential for the region's development and stability. By promoting ADR, James-Eriworio hopes to contribute to a more peaceful and prosperous Niger Delta.
The Nigerian Institute of Chartered Arbitrators, Bayelsa State branch, under James-Eriworio's leadership, is expected to play a key role in promoting ADR in the region. With stronger ADR standards and training, the institute can help build a more peaceful and prosperous future for the Niger Delta region.
Key points
- Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) is essential for a just, inclusive, and peaceful society in the Niger Delta.
