The credibility of an arbitral seat is ultimately measured by the confidence it inspires in its users. A favourable award has little commercial value if delays, procedural abuse or enforcement difficulties make recovery uncertain. This was central to the discussions held at the Ciarb Nigeria Annual Conference in Port Harcourt, held under the theme Beyond Dialogue: Delivering Excellence in Arbitration and ADR.
Prof Wyne had the opportunity to contribute to the panel on Users’ Perspectives in Choosing African Arbitral Seats, where his focus was on the effective use of costs and case-management powers, including adverse costs orders and security for costs, to discourage delay and abuse of process. As African jurisdictions continue strengthening their arbitration laws and institutions, the important question was whether these developments are translating into greater efficiency, predictability and confidence for users.
Prof. Wyne shared the panel with Hon Wilfred ikatari, Prof Prof. ‘Wale Olawoyin, SAN FCIArb, Hon. Justice Lemea Ngbor, and guided by Miannaya Essien, SAN as the moderator. Deep appreciation to the Ciarb Nigeria Branch for convening the forum and fostering continued collaboration across our institutions.
