A high-level committee led by renowned legal scholar Prof. Paul Idornigie has submitted the Supreme Court of Nigeria Mediation Rules 2025 to the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, marking a major milestone in the country’s push to modernize its justice system through alternative dispute resolution mechanisms.
The formal handover of the rules took place on Monday, following several months of intense drafting, consultations, and deliberations. The committee, described as “distinguished and assiduous,” includes:
According to sources close to the committee, the Supreme Court Mediation Rules 2025 represent a “laudable and groundbreaking project” that could transform how disputes are handled at the apex court level.
The initiative is expected to introduce formalized mediation procedures at the Supreme Court, creating structured opportunities for resolving cases through alternative dispute resolution (ADR) processes.
Legal experts say the proposed rules could significantly reduce the court’s case backlog, improve access to justice, and provide more efficient and cost-effective pathways for resolving appropriate matters.
Highlights of the anticipated benefits include:
The submission signals the beginning of a final review process by the Chief Justice of Nigeria, after which the rules may be adopted and implemented.
Once adopted, the Supreme Court Mediation Rules 2025 are expected to usher in a new chapter in Nigeria’s legal landscape—one in which modern ADR practices are embedded at the highest level of judicial adjudication.
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