PROGRAMS AND EVENTS

U.S. Fulbright Specialist Trains Nigerians on ADR

Date: October 17-18, 2008
Venue: Abuja

A U.S. Fulbright Specialist, Fellina O. Nwadike conducted a two-day training program on Alternative Dispute Resolution at Settlement House Abuja from October 17-18. The training was organized in collaboration with the Public Affairs Section of the U.S. Embassy Abuja to provide stakeholders with alternative ways of resolving disputes out of court.

Ms. Nwadike, whose presentation focused on Alternative Dispute Resolution Methodologies and Best Practices, emphasized the need for effective communication between disputing parties to achieve an effective mediation process.

“Communication is more than a tool. When we communicate, we construct our realities, and in turn, shape our critical thinking skills. The only method to resolve conflict is through effective communication” she emphasized.

During the training session she put the participants through exercises on listening skills and acts of persuasion, which she described as essential tools for effective presentation of litigation before the courts. She advised them to adopt these two key elements in any litigation or mediation process in order to achieve results.

The Fulbright Specialist also introduced participants to strategies for effective networking among themselves. They shared contact information with the organizers with a view to reproducing a list serve for regular interaction among participants.

Another resource person at the training session, Mr. Lloyd Duru, spoke on legal practices of litigation and adjudication, which highlighted the challenges faced by lawyers and litigants in presenting their cases before the courts.

The program was attended by over forty participants including judges, magistrates, lawyers, and law students.

Ms Fellina O. Nwadike’s next engagement will be in Sokoto where she will conduct training for staffers of the newly established Center for Peace Studies at Usmanu Danfodiyo University in Sokoto.