Lagos Courthouse recovers billions through dispute resolution
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The Lagos Multi-Door Courthouse in Nigeria has helped parties settle or recover N86.8 billion (approximately $57.7 million USD) in disputes over the past five years.
Justice Kazeem Alogba, Chief Judge of Lagos State, announced this at a summit focused on alternative dispute resolution (ADR). He explained that these funds are now available for economic activities like salaries, supplier payments, and business expansion, demonstrating how ADR builds investor confidence.
The Lagos State government also resolved 3,000 petitions through ADR, reducing potential liabilities from over N1.2 billion to a settlement of N3 million. Federal officials also announced plans to boost investor confidence through a new investment ombudsman, intended to address grievances before they reach formal disputes. Nigeria attracted $23 billion in capital importation in 2025, and its foreign exchange reserves surpassed $50 billion. Dr.
Jumoke Oduwole, Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, emphasized the importance of a predictable business environment with reliable institutions and enforceable contracts. The government is also pursuing reforms to strengthen Nigeria’s arbitration and ADR framework, aiming to establish the country as a leading arbitration hub in Africa. The Central Bank of Nigeria echoed this sentiment, highlighting how effective dispute resolution returns funds to the economy and supports national development.
