The Mediation Training Institute (MTI) has raised alarm over the proliferation of unaccredited Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) institutions in Nigeria, warning that their activities pose serious risks to the integrity of dispute resolution processes in the country. The institute stressed that the rise of unauthorized bodies offering mediation and arbitration services could undermine public trust in ADR and jeopardize the rights of individuals seeking justice outside the formal court system.
Speaking at a press briefing, MTI officials noted that several organizations have begun offering mediation and arbitration training without proper accreditation or compliance with regulatory standards. According to the institute, such practices not only mislead unsuspecting members of the public but also threaten to dilute the quality of ADR practitioners in Nigeria.
The Director-General of MTI emphasized that ADR, when properly managed, serves as a reliable mechanism for resolving conflicts in business, family, workplace, and community settings. He, however, warned that the unchecked activities of unlicensed operators could lead to poor handling of disputes, legal complications, and even further escalation of conflicts. “We must safeguard the credibility of ADR in Nigeria. Institutions that are not accredited have no business offering training or handling disputes,” he said.
MTI further highlighted that accreditation ensures that practitioners undergo rigorous training, adhere to ethical codes of conduct, and are subject to oversight mechanisms that protect clients. Without these safeguards, the institute argued, parties who turn to ADR may find themselves trapped in processes that lack fairness, transparency, or enforceability.
The institute called on relevant regulatory bodies, including the Nigerian Bar Association and the Federal Ministry of Justice, to take stronger steps in monitoring and sanctioning unaccredited institutions. It also urged the public to verify the status of any ADR body before enrolling for training or submitting disputes for resolution.
Stakeholders in the legal and business communities have echoed MTI’s concerns, warning that the spread of unaccredited institutions could derail Nigeria’s progress in promoting ADR as a faster and more cost-effective alternative to litigation. Some practitioners stressed that maintaining high standards is essential if ADR is to remain a trusted pillar of justice delivery in the country.
As part of its campaign, MTI announced plans to intensify awareness programs and publish a verified list of accredited ADR institutions. The institute also pledged to continue working with government and professional bodies to strengthen the regulatory framework, with the ultimate goal of protecting citizens and ensuring that ADR remains a credible and effective option for conflict resolution.
