The Mediation Training Institute’s (MTI) Nigerian Law School (NLS) Program: Professional ADR Accreditation and Certification Course has a rich history rooted in improving access to justice in Nigeria, particularly among budding lawyers. Recognizing the importance of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) in the legal profession, MTI crafted this program to enhance knowledge, awareness, and skills in ADR mechanisms.
The program is designed to support law students in meeting the statutory trust placed upon them by Rule 15(3)d of the Rules of Professional Conduct for Lawyers, which obligates lawyers to inform their clients about ADR options before instituting or continuing litigation. By acquiring ADR skills, budding lawyers can better serve their clients and contribute to the development of legal education in Nigeria.
The MTI NLS Program provides a comprehensive learning experience, covering topics such as:
- Settlement and Strategic Negotiation
- Mediation and Conciliation
- Conflict Analysis and Effective Communication
- Understanding Personality Traits and Code of Professional Conduct
- Restorative Justice and Mediative Conciliation
- Arbitration and the Workings of the Multi-door Courthouse
Initially, MTI collaborated with the Institute of Chartered Mediators and Conciliators (ICMC) and later brought in the International Law Association (ILA) Nigerian Branch. However, to bring more value to NLS participants, MTI has since revamped the program, partnering with reputable institutions to offer recognized certifications:
- Mediation by Mediation Training Institute
- Arbitration by Institute of Construction Industry Arbitrators
- International Law and Diplomacy by International Law Association Nigerian Branch
The benefits of acquiring Alternative Dispute Resolution skills for budding lawyers are numerous:
- Enhanced knowledge and awareness of ADR mechanisms
- Improved conflict resolution and negotiation skills
- Increased ability to serve clients effectively
- Better understanding of the importance of ADR in the legal profession
- Recognition and certification in ADR skills
The MTI Professional ADR Accreditation and Certification Course is offered at a highly discounted rate, reflecting MTI’s commitment to social responsibility and the development of the legal profession in Nigeria.
Sincerely,
Professor Oluwafisayo Ayita
Director of Training, Research and Development
Mediation Training Institute