The Nigerian Institute of Chartered Arbitrators (NICArb) has announced a leadership transition that will see renowned arbitrator and legal practitioner, Mr. Omoruyi A. Omonuwa OFR, SAN, FCArb, assume office as President and Chairman of the Governing Council from July 1, 2026.

The appointment follows the decision of the outgoing President and Chairman of the Governing Council, Professor Fabian Ajogwu OFR, SAN, FCArb, to step down from the position effective June 30, 2026, after years of service to the Institute.

In a statement issued by the Governing Council, the Institute paid tribute to Ajogwu’s tenure, describing his leadership as instrumental in strengthening NICArb’s institutional reputation, expanding its influence within the alternative dispute resolution (ADR) community, and advancing its strategic objectives.

The Council expressed appreciation for his dedication and contributions to the growth of arbitration and alternative dispute resolution practice in Nigeria.

Following the transition, NICArb said Omonuwa would assume responsibility for leading the Institute through its next phase of development, innovation and professional advancement.

According to the Council, Omonuwa brings extensive legal, arbitration and leadership experience to the role, as well as a strong commitment to the values and objectives of the Institute.

Commenting on the transition, Ajogwu expressed confidence in his successor’s ability to provide effective leadership and sustain the Institute’s progress.

“I have every confidence in the Learned Senior Advocate and Distinguished Arbitrator, Mr. Omoruyi A. Omonuwa’s ability to lead NICArb into its next phase of growth and development. His integrity, experience, and dedication to the objectives of our institution make him exceptionally qualified for this role.

“I am confident that NICArb will continue to thrive under his stewardship, and I offer him my full support and best wishes as he assumes this important responsibility,” he said.

The Institute described the transition as a reflection of continuity in leadership and a reaffirmation of its commitment to strengthening arbitration and alternative dispute resolution practice in Nigeria and across Africa.

The Governing Council called on members, partners and stakeholders to support the incoming President as he assumes his new responsibilities.

Established in 1979 and incorporated in 1988, NICArb is Nigeria’s foremost professional body dedicated to the promotion and development of arbitration and alternative dispute resolution mechanisms. Over the years, the Institute has played a significant role in advancing professional standards, capacity building and ethical practice within the ADR community.

Beyond Nigeria, the Institute has also strengthened its international profile through its recognition as a Certified Mediator Training Programme (CMTP) provider by the International Mediation Institute (IMI), further positioning it as a leading institution for arbitration and mediation training in Sub-Saharan Africa.

The leadership transition comes at a time when alternative dispute resolution continues to gain prominence globally as businesses, governments and institutions increasingly seek faster and more efficient mechanisms for resolving disputes outside traditional court systems.