Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission, NUPRC, said it adopted Alternative Dispute Resolution, ADR, in order to resolve issues and put oil and gas assets into production. The agency said its Alternative Dispute Resolution Centre in Lagos, aims at providing quality, efficient, and cost-effective dispute resolution services within the upstream oil and gas industry. Speaking at the inauguration of a Body of Neutrals or experts to provide ADR services, the Commission Chief Executive, NUPRC, Engr. Gbenga Komolafe, said: “In an increasingly complex and interconnected world, the demand for effective and efficient dispute resolution has never been more critical. While traditional litigation remains necessary and important, it is often accompanied by inherent delays, high costs, and adversarial postures that can exacerbate conflicts and strain relationships, as seen in numerous protracted legal battles between Producers and host communities.
“These challenges underscore the inefficiencies of traditional litigation and the immense financial burdens and prolonged suffering it imposes on the individuals and communities involved. In recognition of these challenges, our Alternative Dispute Resolution Centre was conceived with a vision to provide a seamless approach to dispute resolution—one that emphasis on mechanisms such as mediation and conciliation and other ADR methods.
“Our goal is to establish a Centre grounded in fairness, efficiency, and integrity, offering a platform where disputes can be resolved outside the often-cumbersome traditional processes. Our methods enable parties to reach amicable solutions through mediation, conciliation, and other alternative dispute resolution (ADR) methods. Our Centre is not merely an institution; it stands as a beacon of hope for those seeking justice in a timely and cost-effective manner. It is also a testament to our unwavering commitment to promoting and institutionalising efficiency in the oil and gas industry by providing a conducive environment founded on the principles of equity and justice for all stakeholders, regardless of their background or the nature of their operations.
“The success of our Centre is intrinsically tied to the Body of Neutrals, which we inaugurate today. This esteemed group of professionals embodies the core values of impartiality, expertise, professionalism, and dedication. After meticulous review and thorough consultation, I am pleased to announce that the Body of Neutrals comprises eminent professionals with expert knowledge and/or technical experience in the oil and gas industry. Members include lawyers, retired judges, oil and gas industry experts, and other subject matter experts. The role of these Neutrals is multifaceted. They are entrusted with the oversight of disputes and the mediation of matters that fall within the Centre’s jurisdiction.
“One of the fundamental objectives of our Centre is to enhance access to justice in a timely and cost-effective manner. Too often, individuals and corporate entities in the oil and gas industry find themselves entangled in protracted legal battles that deplete resources, waste valuable time, and adversely affect the nation’s oil and gas production output. By offering alternative avenues for dispute resolution, we are opening doors to swift, equitable, and less adversarial processes in our industry. This approach not only benefits the parties involved but also alleviates the burden on our overextended judicial system.
“Our approach is inclusive and adaptive, designed to meet the unique needs of the oil and gas industry. Whether through mediation sessions that foster direct communication or expert determination proceedings that provide binding resolutions, our Centre is equipped to handle disputes of varying complexities and scales. We are committed to ensuring that every individual, entity, or community that seeks our services is treated with dignity and respect, and that their path to resolution is as smooth and supportive as possible. Beyond resolving individual disputes, our Centre aspires to foster a broader culture of resolution and cooperation, particularly in relation to host communities. The Commission regularly receives a multitude of court cases and petitions concerning host community matters. The relationship between host communities and settlors, or among host communities themselves, should be guided by equity, inclusiveness, and respect for the various laws governing the oil and gas industry.” Members of the Body include: Mr. Osten Olurunsola, Mr. George Osahon, Mr. Dozie Inechukwu, Dr. Edefe Ojomo,mrs. Olayinka Kolade, Mr. Omoniyi Odeyemi, Adeyemi Akinsanya, Dapo Akinosun, Femi Falana, Dr. Nike Esan, Achere Cole, Adeyinka Aroyewun, Ojukwu Chiakoasolu, Daere Akobo, Hon Justice Andrew Omolaye-Ajileye, Chinenye Onyemaizu, Isaiah Bozimo, Dr. David Agbu, Amb. Abdullahi Omaki, Olajumoke Adio, Mrs. Owoeye Ibikun, Mrs. Shola Oshodi –John, Chidy Martins, Babatunde Fagbohunlu, Oghogho Makinde, Hon. Justice Babatunde Adejumo and Deji Morakinyo.
