
28/07/2025
ADR: A Game-Changer for Court Decongestion
Kaduna CJ Lauds Alternative Dispute Resolution Initiative for Enhancing Access to Justice...
By AbdulHakeem Mutiu Adejumo-Ajeseku, Kaduna-Nigeria
BTvNEWS: The Chief Judge of Kaduna State, Hon. Justice Muhammad Tukur Mu'azu Aliyu, has highlighted the effectiveness of the Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) approach in decongesting court dockets.
Speaking at the opening ceremony of the Kaduna Multi-doorhouse Settlement Week 2025 on Monday, Justice Aliyu noted that ADR has complemented the conventional court system by providing a platform for parties to resolve disputes in a less adversarial and more efficient manner.
According to the CJ, the settlement week marks a significant milestone in the collective effort to deepen access to justice through timely, cost-effective, and amicable resolution of disputes.
He emphasized that the Kaduna Multi-Door Courthouse has remained a testament to the judiciary's commitment to innovation and reform, becoming a credible hub for ADR.
Justice Aliyu encouraged parties with eligible matters to take full advantage of the settlement week, stating:
"As we flag off the 2025 Settlement Week, I encourage all parties with eligible matters to take full advantage of this opportunity. Mediation and other ADR processes not only save time and cost—they often preserve relationships, build understanding, and provide flexible solutions that litigation may not offer."
The CJ assured that the Kaduna State Judiciary remains committed to strengthening the institutional framework and operational capacity of the Kaduna Multi-Door Courthouse.
He emphasized the importance of collaboration, stating:
"We shall continue to work with the Ministry of Justice, the NBA, civil society, development partners, and the private sector to promote ADR as a fundamental pillar of our justice system."
Justice Aliyu also commended the panel of neutrals and ADR officers, urging them to uphold the highest standards in assisting parties toward resolution.
He added, "To our esteemed panel of neutrals and ADR officers—your professionalism, impartiality, and diligence remain critical to the credibility of this process. I urge you to uphold the highest standards as you assist parties toward resolution."
At the same event, the Director of the Kaduna Multi-Door CourtHouse, H/W Dorcas Levy Daniel, reported that the initiative has yielded tangible results since its inception.
She disclosed that the Kaduna Settlement Week has successfully decongested courts, reduced case backlog, and promoted a culture of dialogue rather than litigation.
According to H/W Daniel, "last year alone, over 150 matters were successfully resolved, saving both the court and the litigants significant time and cost."
She also emphasized the importance of amicable resolution, stating:
"As we begin the 2025 Settlement Week, may we be reminded that every matter resolved amicably brings us closer to a society where justice works and peace lasts."
The Kaduna Multi-Door Courthouse has become a beacon of hope for parties seeking alternative dispute resolution.
As the settlement week progresses, parties with eligible matters are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity to resolve their disputes in a timely, cost-effective, and amicable manner.
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