FROM RAHILA ABDULLAHI, KADUNA
Chief Judge, CJ, of Kaduna State, Muhammad Aliyu has declared that Alternative Dispute Resolution, ADR, complements the conventional court system by decongesting the dockets.
The CJ said the initiative had created an atmosphere for parties to resolve their disputes in a less adversarial and more efficient manner, just as it promotes peace-building among the litigants.
Justice Aliyu made this known in his speech at the opening ceremony of the Kaduna Multi-doorhouse Settlement Week 2025 in Kaduna, Monday.
According to him, the settlement week marks another important milestone in the collective effort to deepen access to justice through timely, cost-effective and amicable resolution of disputes.
Fielding questions from journalists, the CJ stressed that since its establishment, Kaduna Multi-Door Courthouse had remained a testament to the judiciary’s commitment to innovation and reform, adding that it has become a credible hub for Alternative Dispute Resolution.
“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.
“Let me assure you that the Kaduna State judiciary remains fully committed to strengthening the institutional framework and operational capacity of KDMDC. We shall continue to work with the Ministry of Justice, Nigerian Bar Association, NBA, civil society, development partners and the private sector to promote ADR as a fundamental pillar of our justice system.
“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,” he said.
In her remarks, the Director of Kaduna Multi-Door CourtHouse, Dorcas Daniel disclosed that since its inception, the Kaduna Settlement Week had yielded tangible results —decongesting courts, reducing case backlog and creating a culture of dialogue rather than litigation.
“Last year alone, over 150 matters were successfully resolved, saving both the court and the litigants significant time and cost.
“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,” she said.
