By Vivian Emoni
The Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI) has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting women’s participation in Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) to enhance business growth for effective economic stability.
The President of the chamber, Chief Emeka Obegolu, reaffirmed the commitment on Tuesday in Abuja, at the second edition of the Women in ADR and Business Summit 2026.
The programme organised by Nigerian Chamber of Commerce Dispute Resolution Centre (NCC-DRC) of the ACCI, has as its theme ”Women Leading Change in Advancing ADR Excellence and Business Growth”.
Obegolu said that the summit was organised to commemorate the International Women’s Day, adding that the programme was a strategic platform for advancing commercial dispute resolution and celebrating the contributions of women in the sector.
He said that the theme of the programme reflected the growing recognition of women as key drivers of innovation, integrity and sustainable development in the justice and business ecosystem.
”At ACCI, we are proud to support initiatives that strengthen ADR as a cornerstone of economic stability and investor confidence.
”Through the NCC-DRC, we have continue to promote efficient, cost-effective and business-friendly mechanisms for resolving commercial disputes,” he said.
The ACCI president noted that the role of women in ADR had evolved significantly, with many now serving as mediators, arbitrators, negotiators, policymakers and thought leaders.
He said women brought not only technical expertise but also emotional intelligence, ethical clarity and collaborative leadership, which were essential for building trust and delivering justice in a dynamic commercial environment.
He emphasised that empowering women in ADR was not only a matter of equity but also a strategic imperative for economic growth.
According to him, studies have shown that diverse leadership leads to better decision-making, improved governance and stronger economic outcomes.
”Investing in women’s capacity in ADR is therefore, an investment in the future of our economy,” he said.
Obegolu called on stakeholders to create more opportunities for women through mentorship programmes, policy reforms, capacity-building initiatives and inclusion in leadership roles.
He commended women in the sector for their resilience and contributions, noting that they were not only breaking barriers but also paving the way for future generations.
He urged participants to actively engage in discussions and ensure that the summit translated into actionable outcomes.
He also reiterated the chamber’s support for the NCC-DRC and other initiatives aimed at promoting ADR as a tool for economic transformation.
”Together, we can build a more inclusive, efficient and sustainable business environment where women continue to lead,” he said.
In his remarks, Prince Adetokunbo Kayode, Chairman, ACCI/NCC-DRC, reaffirmed its commitment to advancing dispute resolution excellence, while promoting inclusive, leadership and capacity development for women across legal and business sectors.
Kayode represented by Aisha Abdullahi, Vice President, Legal, ACCI, said the summit theme highlighted women’s roles as leaders and innovators shaping dispute resolution.
He noted their growing influence in boardrooms, courtrooms and negotiations, while calling for more knowledge-sharing platforms.
He added that the programme offered practical insights and fostered collaboration, adding that empowering women in ADR would strengthen economic development and enhance the quality, diversity and impact of practice in Nigeria.
In the same vein, Mrs Hauwa Usman, Registrar General, NCC-DRC of the chamber said that the NCC-DRC provided efficient, neutral, and business-oriented mechanisms for resolving commercial disputes within Nigeria and across borders.
Usman said that the objective of the centre was to promote alternative dispute resolution methods such as arbitration, mediation, and conciliation, while delivering timely, cost-effective services to businesses and investors.
”The centre supports dispute prevention and risk management through training, advisory services, and capacity building for lawyers, in-house counsel, and business owners.
”The centre also offers services including arbitration and mediation administration, policy engagement, stakeholders` dialogue, and support facilities, while expanding impact through initiatives like masterclasses and dispute resolution programmes.
”Strategically, the NCC-DRC enhances ease of doing business, strengthens investor confidence, and promotes dispute prevention, aligning with regional frameworks to support cross-border trade and economic growth,” she said.
The Former Chief Justice, Federal Capital Territory, (FCT) High Court, Isaq Bello, said that the programme aimed to promote training and inclusion of women in ADR.(NAN)(www.nannewd.ng)
Edited by Deborah Coker
