Mariam Abeeb
The Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI) has advocated for gender parity to encourage and promote women in leadership roles across the country.
Chief Emeka Obegolu, President of the ACCI, made the call at the 2025 Women in Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Summit in Abuja.
The summit was organised by the Nigerian Chambers of Commerce Dispute Resolution Centre (NCC-DRC) of the ACCI.
Obegolu, who said the theme of the summit was “Pioneering Innovation and Driving Inclusive Change,” added that Nigerians must reflect on the transformative role women play in shaping the future of ADR.
He noted that the summit was a testament to the power of inclusion, innovation, and the relentless pursuit of equity in the dispute resolution landscape.
He further emphasised that women have continually broken barriers, redefining the standards of excellence in mediation, arbitration, and negotiation.
“This is a time when we believe women will make a difference, taking on leadership roles to sustain and accelerate progress.
“Each of us has a role to play. Whether as mentors, allies, policymakers, or practitioners, we must continue to champion the inclusion of women in ADR.
“I call us to commit to advancing gender parity, encouraging equal representation in ADR institutions and leadership roles, mentorship, sponsorship, innovative solutions, and global collaboration,” he added.
Obegolu also highlighted that history showed women have been at the forefront of conflict resolution, both within families and communities, and now in boardrooms, courtrooms, and arbitration panels worldwide.
The president added that innovation in dispute resolution was not solely about technological advancements but also about diverse perspectives, fresh approaches, and inclusion.
He said women were key to achieving inclusive strategies that lead to fairer and more effective outcomes.
“Women bring unique skills and perspectives to ADR. By harnessing these tools, we enhance the credibility and accessibility of ADR mechanisms, making them more responsive to the needs of diverse stakeholders.
“Moreover, gender diversity in ADR is not just a moral imperative. It is a business and legal necessity. Inclusive panels and tribunals are more likely to produce balanced, just, and well-reasoned work.
“We are not only strengthening ADR but also reinforcing the principles of justice and fairness that underpin our profession,” Obegolu said.
Mr Adetukunbo Kayode, Chairman of (NCC-DRC), emphasised the need to ensure that dispute resolution mechanisms reflected the diversity of the society they serve.
Kayode called for a strong commitment to mentoring, supporting, and creating pathways for more women to thrive in ADR.
