Lagos is preparing to welcome legal experts, business executives, regulators, and arbitration professionals from across Africa for the 10th International Chamber of Commerce Africa Conference on International Arbitration and Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR).
The three-day event will take place from June 3 to 5, 2026, at the Lagos Continental Hotel. The conference is being organised by the ICC International Court of Arbitration in partnership with ICC Nigeria.
This year’s conference carries the theme, *“A Decade of Excellence: Shaping the Future of International Arbitration & ADR in Africa.”* The gathering is expected to focus on how arbitration and other dispute resolution methods can improve business relationships and support economic growth across the continent.
According to the organisers, activities will begin on June 3 with a specialised training session organised by the ICC Institute of World Business Law. The training will focus on drafting enforceable arbitral awards and is designed to give participants practical knowledge on handling arbitration decisions that can stand legal scrutiny internationally.
The main conference sessions will hold on June 4 and 5. Discussions are expected to centre on major issues affecting businesses and investors operating across borders in Africa. Topics lined up include cross-border commercial disputes, enforcement of arbitral awards, investment arbitration, energy and infrastructure conflicts, and the growing impact of technology and innovation on arbitration practices.
Organisers also said the conference will examine Africa’s role within the global arbitration system and how the continent can strengthen its dispute resolution structures to attract more international investments.
Several respected legal professionals and industry leaders are expected to speak at the conference. Among them are Lateef Olasukanmi Fagbemi, Claudia Salomon, Dorothy Udeme Ufot, Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, Afam Osigwe, Lawal Pedro, and Funke Adekoya.
ICC Nigeria described the conference as an important platform for improving arbitration standards in Africa and building stronger systems for resolving commercial disputes efficiently. The organisation noted that reliable dispute resolution processes are essential for boosting investor confidence and encouraging international business transactions.
The event is also expected to attract judges, academics, policymakers, corporate lawyers, arbitrators, regulators, and business representatives from different African countries. Participants will discuss new trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping arbitration and ADR practices across the continent.
Organisers further stated that hosting the conference in Lagos highlights Nigeria’s growing reputation as a leading centre for legal innovation, international arbitration, and commercial dispute resolution in Africa.
With increasing trade and investment activities across African markets, experts believe the conference could help strengthen collaboration among legal and business communities while promoting faster and more reliable ways of settling disputes outside traditional court systems.
