Making Arbitration Clauses Work: Practical Steps And Key Considerations Under Nigeria's Arbitration Framework

1. Introduction

Arbitration continues to be a preferred dispute-resolution mechanism for commercial parties seeking confidentiality, speed, and procedural autonomy. With the enactment of the Arbitration and Mediation Act 2023 (“AMA”), Nigeria has modernised its arbitral framework, aligning domestic practice with international standards.

Understanding how to give effect to an arbitration clause under the AMA is essential to managing commercial and legal risk. In practice, enforcement can arise in a range of situations from resisting court proceedings to ensuring that an arbitral award is ultimately recognised. This article explores the key stages of enforcement under the AMA, explains the procedural framework that supports it, and outlines practical considerations that contracting parties should bear in mind when negotiating or invoking arbitration clauses.