Stakeholders Call for Maritime Arbitration Reforms in Nigeria

During the 20th anniversary celebration of the Maritime Arbitrators Association of Nigeria (MAAN) in Lagos, industry leaders advocated for significant reforms in maritime arbitration to enhance efficiency and competitiveness in Nigeria's maritime sector. Keynote speaker Dayo Mobereola, Director General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), alongside Aisha Idri Yakubu, highlighted the need for a shift from litigation to arbitration due to delays and high operational costs associated with court processes.

Plans were disclosed to establish a dedicated Nigerian maritime arbitration center, drawing on global best practices from the Singapore Maritime Arbitration Centre. This initiative aims to provide specialized dispute resolution mechanisms to sustain industry growth.

Abubakar Dantsoho, Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority, and Leonard Onoja emphasized the role of arbitration in maintaining investor confidence and operational predictability within Nigeria's ports. The event featured remarks from Olabode Rhode-Vivour, who commended MAAN's resilience and commitment to mentorship and advocacy over the past two decades, and concluded with a call to action from MAAN President Jean Chiazor Anisher.