Overview
AbstractIn today’s evolving commercial landscape, complex transactions frequently involve multiple parties connected through a web of interrelated contracts and legal obligations. Such arrangements are standard in sectors like infrastructure development, oil and gas, joint ventures, and international supply chains. When disputes arise in these multifaceted settings, arbitration is often preferred for its flexibility, neutrality, and global enforceability. However, conventional arbitration procedures are primarily structured for bilateral disputes and may not readily accommodate the procedural intricacies of multi-party arbitration.
This paper critically examines the legal framework governing multi-party arbitration in Nigeria under the Arbitration and Mediation Act 2023 (AMA), highlighting the core challenges associated with arbitrator appointments, consolidation of proceedings, joinder of additional parties, confidentiality, and the risk of inconsistent arbitral awards. It further explores strategic and practical solutions to mitigate these issues, drawing on Nigerian statutory provisions, comparative international practices, and real-world commercial scenarios. Ultimately, the paper provides a comprehensive guide for legal practitioners, institutions, and commercial actors seeking to navigate the complexities of multi-party arbitration in modern transactional environments.
