On July 12th, 2024, the President of the Institute of Chartered Mediators and Conciliators (ICMC), Godwin Omoaka SAN, FICMC, FCIArb, led a delegation to the office of Hon. Justice Salisu Garba Rtd, Administrator of the National Judicial Institute (NJI). The delegation included the Registrar, Babatunde Oyefeso; Vice President Finance, Amb. Victor A.A.A. Ojaide; Finance/Administrative Manager, Mrs. Irene Corson; and Head of Communications, Marketing, and Member Services, Joshua Adepetu.

During the courtesy visit, President Omoaka thanked the NJI Administrator and his team of dedicated staff for warmly welcoming the ICMC delegation. He commended the National Judicial Institute for its outstanding efforts in promoting judicial excellence and enhancing the professionalism of the judiciary. The President highlighted the crucial role of mediation in decongesting court cases globally, explaining that mediation offers a cost-effective, efficient, and amicable alternative to traditional litigation. This approach helps resolve disputes more quickly and effectively, alleviating the burden on the court system and providing parties with a more flexible and satisfying resolution to their conflicts.

In view of this, Godwin Omoaka, SAN requested collaboration with the National Judicial Institute to train judges and magistrates. He noted that the Institute has successfully trained magistrates and judges from Lagos State, Ogun State, Ebonyi State, and other states in Nigeria. He explained the advantages of such training, emphasizing how it equips judges and magistrates with essential skills for mediation and conciliation, ultimately enhancing their ability to resolve disputes efficiently and effectively across the nation.

Additionally, the President presented an Honorary Fellowship to Hon. Justice Salisu Garba. He mentioned that my lord would be formally inducted into the Institute on November 26th, 2024, during the ADR Conference and induction ceremony for the new members.

In response, the Administrator of NJI expressed appreciation to the President and his team for their visit. He acknowledged the benefits of alternative dispute resolution and the role of mediation in reducing court cases. Additionally, the NJI Administrator expressed his gratitude to the President for the Honorary Fellowship. It was resolved that the collaboration be taken to level of mutual benefit to NJI and the ICMC.

Lastly, the Hon. Justice Salisu Garba expressed profound gratitude towards ICMC for its remarkable contributions to the landscape of dispute resolution. He urged ICMC to continue its commendable efforts in raising awareness about the imperative need to embrace alternative conflict resolution approaches.

As a token of appreciation, a delightful exchange of gifts took place, followed by a group photograph to commemorate the visit.

For more information about the Institute, kindly visit: www.icmcng.org