Stakeholders in dispute resolution techniques on Tuesday in Sokoto, called for improved multi door court model, as well as climate-action, aimed at achieving out-of-court settlement of conflicts.
They made the call at the end of a two-day Executive Policy and Peer Learning Roundtable on Strengthening Justice Sector Reforms and Promoting Access to Justice.
The event organised by a Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO) “Project Alert”, aims at advancing justice sector reforms in the North West.
It has particular referrence to the multidoor courthouse model, and a new climate-action initiative.
In his address, Country Director of International Alert Nigeria, Dr. Kingsley Udo, said that the effort is supported by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, under the programme: Strengthening Peace and Resilience in Nigeria (SPRiNG).
Udo emphasised the need for timely, affordable and community-responsive access to justice, which is vital for preventing heightened grievances
He noted that emerging challenges in the region underscored the need for a flexible and people-centred mechanisms for resolving disputes.
” One of the central interventions discussed was the multi door courthouse, a system that offers alternatives to traditional litigation.
” The model, currently undergoing consideration at the Zamfara State House of Assembly, is also being supported with public awareness activities in Katsina, to strengthen citizens’ understanding of its benefits, ” he said.
He explained that International Alert further introduced a new initiative titled “Powering Peace Through Climate Action,” which will be implemented in Sokoto, to address climate-related pressures.
He called for increased commitment, investment and adhering to implementation strategies in order to achieve the desired objectives.
The Programme Manager, Mr Sunday Jimoh, expressed appreciation to the Sokoto State Government and the British FCDO for their continued collaboration.
He said that the meeting sought to reinforce trust between communities and public institutions by promoting peaceful, fair and accessible justice mechanisms.
” The roundtable is expected to produce clear Standard Operating Procedures for case referrals and a practical roadmap for expanding the multidoor courthouse model across the North West, ” he said.
On his part, the Deputy Speaker, Mr. Kabiru Ibrahim- Kware, who represented the Speaker, affirmed the legislature’s readiness to collaborate with relevant stakeholders to drive justice reforms.
He assured that the Assembly will enact laws that will further support effective justice delivery and strengthen public confidence.
Also speaking, the Director of the Kaduna State Multi door Court House, made presentation on the roles of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) centres, and community engagements.
Daniel said there was need to leverage the multi door courthouse for accessible, efficient and peace-promoting disputes resolution.
The event had in attendance, senior government officials, legislators, judges, traditional rulers, civil society organisations and development partners.
