7th ICC Africa Conference on International Arbitration

31-02 May/Jun 2023

Lagos English and French CLE/MCLE/CNB credits & hours available

The 7th ICC Africa Conference on International Arbitration is taking place in Lagos on 1-2 June 2023!

This eagerly anticipated event attracts over 350-450 attendees from more than 20 countries each year, making it a prime networking opportunity for the African dispute resolution community.

As the premier platform for emerging trends and latest insights in African arbitration, this conference brings together top international practitioners and academics to discuss the most pressing issues affecting the African dispute resolution landscape. This year, the theme is "International Arbitration and ADR: The African Journey So Far and Looking Forward". 

An ICC Institute Advanced Level Training entitled Catch Me If (And While) You Can: How To Navigate Interim Measures in International Arbitration will take place on 31 May 2023.

Stay up-to-date with the latest news on the #ICCNY Conference by following ICC Arbitration on LinkedIn, Twitter and Facebook.

Who should attend?

  • Practicing lawyers
  • Arbitrators, mediators
  • Corporate counsel
  • Academic
  • Professionals interested in and/or involved in international arbitration in Africa
31 May: ICC Institute Training
1 & 2 June: Conference
30 May: YAAF
2 June: YAAF

Chairs of the training:

Mélida Hodgson, Partner, Arnold & Porter, United States

Ucheora Onwuamaegbu, International Attorney, ArentFox Schiff, United States

08.00 - 08.50

Registration

 

08.50 - 09.00

Welcoming address

  • Adedapo Tunde-Olowu, SAN, Managing Partner, AELEX, Nigeria; Co-Chairman, Planning Committee

09.00 – 09.10

Introduction and presentation of the ICC Institute of World Business Law

  • Mélida Hodgson, Partner, Arnold & Porter, United States; Vice Chair, ICC Institute of World Business Law, Paris
  • Ucheora Onwuamaegbu, International Attorney, ArentFox Schiff, United States  

09.10 – 10.10

Strategic considerations and procedures: When, how and to whom to request interim measures?

  • Concept: must be temporary
  • Powers of the ICC arbitral tribunals
  • Role of the lex arbitri
  • When can/should request for interim measures be made?
  • To whom can/should interim measures be requested: emergency arbitrator, arbitral tribunal, national courts (concurrent jurisdiction)
  • ICC procedure and statistics: Art. 28 ICC Rules
  • Specific measures: security for costs, escrow accounts, stop payment orders relating to first demand bank guarantees, and counter-guarantees
  • Mélida Hodgson, Partner, Arnold & Porter, United States; Vice Chair, ICC Institute of World Business Law, Paris 
  • Benjamin Ng’eno, Deputy Counsel, ICC International Court of Arbitration, Paris  
  • Guled Yusuf, Partner, Allen & Overy, United Kingdom; Member, ICC International Court of Arbitration  

 

10.10 – 10.40

Mock Case

 

10.40 –  11.10

Coffee Break

 

11.10 – 11.55

Practical considerations: The counsel’s perspective

  • Burden of proof
  • Types of measures that can be requested: a very broad range, but with limitations
  • Ex-parte requests
  • Discovery requests before national courts in aid of international arbitration (e.g., 28 USC 1782 requests)
  • Most common defenses against requests for interim measures
  • Laurie Achtouk-Spivak, Partner, Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton LLP, France; Member, ICC Institute of World Business Law 
  • Tsegaye Laurendeau, Partner, Signature Litigation LLP, United Kingdom   

 

11.55 – 13.00

Mock Case

 

13.00 – 14.30

Lunch

 

14.30 – 15.00

Practical considerations: The arbitrator’s perspective

  • Information with the parties (especially at the outset of the case)
  • Urgency and due process (can an arbitrator award ex parte measures?)
  • Risks: prejudgment, awarding or denying measures may have a permanent effect (e.g., where one of the parties risks liquidation, where assets may disappear, etc.)
  • Can/should arbitrators Asymmetric take a more active role (e.g., escrow accounts managed by tribunals; order counter-security)
  • Olusola  Adegbonmire, Managing Partner,  Sola Ajijola & Co., Nigeria   
  • Ucheora Onwuamaegbu, Consulting Attorney, International Arbitration and Dispute Resolution Practice, ArentFox Schiff, United States 

 

15.00 – 15.55

Q&A

 

15.55 – 16.25

Compliance, enforcement and other issues arising after interim measures are ordered/awarded

  • “Order” v. “Award” of interim measures
  • Enforcement considerations: what can the parties do?
  • What can arbitrators do faced with a party’s refusal to comply with interim measures?
  • Relevance of civil v. common law jurisdictions

 

  • Sylvie Bebohi Ebongo, Co-Founder & Partner, HBE Avocats, France; Founder & Managing Partner, HBE Avocats, Cameroon
  • Enobong Ozor, Team Lead, Contracting, Commercial & Non-Environmental Litigation, Global Litigation, The Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria Limited, Nigeria

16.25 – 17.20

Q&A

 

17.20 – 17.30

Concluding remarks

  • Mélida Hodgson, Partner, Arnold & Porter, United States; Vice Chair, ICC Institute of World Business Law, Paris
  • Ucheora Onwuamaegbu, International Attorney, ArentFox Schiff, United States

International Arbitration and ADR: The African Journey so Far and Looking Forward 

Day 1

07.00 – 08.00 

Registration 

08.00 – 08.20 

Welcome addresses 

 

  • Babatunde Savage, Chairman, International Chamber of Commerce Nigeria, Nigeria 
  • Dorothy Udeme Ufot, Founding Partner, Dorothy Ufot & Co, Nigeria; Chair, ICC Nigeria Commission on Arbitration & ADR  
  • Alexander Fessas, Secretary General, ICC International Court of Arbitration, Paris  

 

08.20 – 08.30  

Special remarks 

 

  • Y.C Maikyau, President, Nigerian Bar Association, Nigeria 
  • Bashir Jamoh, Director-General and Chief Executive Officer, the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Nigeria

 

08.30 – 08.45 

Opening address 

 

  • Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Executive Governor, Lagos State, Nigeria 

 

08.45 – 08.55 

Keynote address 

 

  • John W.H. Denton, Secretary General, International Chamber of Commerce, Paris 

 

08.55 – 09.25 

Interview with business community 

 

The International Chamber of Commerce as the World Business Organization represents over 45 million businesses worldwide. ICC’s purpose is to enable businesses to secure peace, prosperity and opportunity for all.

In an increasingly tumultuous trade environment where access to justice and the rule of law are key to ensuring business continuity, ICC facilitates the resolution of commercial disputes with unmatched levels of service.

ICC’s range of services promotes the continuity of global trade by helping commercial parties avoid, manage and resolve their disputes efficiently.

To mark 100 years of the International Court of Arbitration of the International Chamber of Commerce and in echo of the purpose and core mission of ICC, the President of the ICC Court Ms Claudia Salomon will engage, during this opening session, in a fireside chat with two prominent figures of the business community in Africa.  

Session Coordinator: 

  • Diamana Diawara, Director, Arbitration and ADR for Africa, International Chamber of Commerce, Paris  

 

  • Tony O. Elumelu, Chairman, United Bank for Africa (UBA) Group; Chairman, Transcorp Group; Founder, The Tony Elumelu Foundation, Nigeria 
  • Oscar Onyema, Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Nigerian Exchange Group Plc, Nigeria 
  • Claudia Salomon, President, ICC International Court of Arbitration, Paris   

 

09.25 – 09.30  

Closing remarks for the opening session 

 

  • Dorothy Udeme Ufot, SAN, Founding Partner, Dorothy Ufot & Co, Nigeria; Chair, ICC Nigeria Commission on Arbitration & ADR  

 

09.30 – 10.20 

African arbitration and ADR in review: International milestones and a look at the 100 years of the ICC 

 

In light of the ICC's centenary anniversary this year, this session aims to showcase the ICC's achievements in arbitration over the past 100 years and the advantages that African businesses have reaped from the ICC's initiatives. Additionally, the session will delve into future opportunities and strategies to enhance Africa's arbitration and ADR ecosystem with the aim of attracting more foreign investment.

Session Coordinator: 

  • Laura Alakija, Independent Arbitrator, Nigeria

Moderator: 

  • Funke Adekoya, SAN, Independent Arbitrator. Funke Adekoya & Co., Nigeria 

 

  • Girgis Abd El-Shahid, Managing Partner, Shahid Law Firm, Egypt  
  • Jonathan Barnes, Partner, Bowmans Law Firm, South Africa  
  • Miannaya Aja Essien, SAN, Managing Partner, Principles Law Partnership Lagos, Nigeria 
  • Julius Nkafu, Barrister, Great James Street Chambers, United Kingdom 
  • Tafadzwa Pasipanodya, Partner, International Litigation and Arbitration Department; Chair, Africa Practice Group, Foley Hoag, United States  

 

10.20 – 10.25 

Conference overview 

 

 

  • Jean Chiazor Anishere, SAN, Principal Partner, Jean Chiazor & Partners, Nigeria; Co-Chairman, Planning Committee  
  • Adedapo Tunde-Olowu, SAN, Managing Partner, AELEX, Nigeria; Co-Chairman, Planning Committee  

 

10.25 – 10.55 

Coffee break 

10.55 – 11.55  

The ICC Court in Action: A Behind-the-Scenes Look at the Scrutiny of Awards  

This session offers a unique opportunity to gain insight into the inner workings of the ICC Court. ICC Court members and a representative from the ICC Secretariat will simulate an ICC Court session, engaging the audience in an interactive discussion about various issues that commonly arise during the scrutiny process of awards in African cases.

Session Coordinator: 

  • Diamana Diawara, Director, Arbitration and ADR for Africa, International Chamber of Commerce, Paris  

 

Moderator: 

  • Claudia Salomon, President, ICC International Court of Arbitration, Paris
  • Alexander G. Fessas, Secretary General, ICC International Court of Arbitration, Paris  

 

  • Girgis Abd El-Shahid, Managing Partner, Shahid Law Firm, Egypt; Member, ICC International Court of Arbitration 
  • Sabrina Aïnouz, Partner, International Dispute Resolution Practice Group, Squire Patton Boggs, France; Member, ICC International Court of Arbitration 
  • Marietta Agyeiwaa Brew, Managing Partner, Lithur Brew & Company, Ghana; Member, ICC International Court of Arbitration 
  • Joachim Bilé-Aka, Partner, Bilé-Aka, Brizoua Bi & Associés, Ivory Coast; Member, ICC International Court of Arbitration 
  • Achille Ngwanza, Managing Partner, JUS AFRICA, Nigeria; Member, ICC International Court of Arbitration
  • Yejide Osunkeye, Managing Partner, YBO LEGAL, Nigeria; Member, ICC International Court of Arbitration 
  • Mahlape Sello, Owner, Duma Nokwe Group, South Africa; Member, ICC International Court of Arbitration 
  • Tafadzwa Pasipanodya, Partner, International Litigation and Arbitration Department; Chair, Africa Practice Group, Foley Hoag, United States; Member, ICC International Court of Arbitration 
  • Adedoyin Rhodes-Vivour, SAN, Managing Partner, Doyin Rhodes-Vivour & Co, Nigeria; Member, ICC International Court of Arbitration  

 

12.00 – 12.50 

Prime Facie or De Novo? Examining judicial difference to arbitrators’ jurisdictional determinations 

 

The focus of this session is the lack of uniformity in the standards applied by State courts when reviewing jurisdictional determinations made by arbitral tribunals.

For instance, courts in England and Wales undertake a de novo review of the tribunal's factual and legal findings concerning the existence of a valid arbitration agreement entered into by the award debtor.

French courts tend to independently review tribunals' jurisdiction de novo independently of any factual and legal findings of the tribunal. In contrast, US courts take a more nuanced approach, which may depend on the nature of the objection asserted and the Convention ground under which the objection was made at the enforcement stage.

This session aims to explore the impact of these different approaches of State courts to arbitral tribunals’ jurisdictional determinations on the efficacy of arbitration as a dispute resolution mechanism.

Session Coordinator: 

  • Tolu Obamuroh, Associate, White & Case LLP, France 

 

Moderator: 

  • Elizabeth Oger-Gross, Partner, White & Case LLP, France 

 

  • Prof. George Bermann, Director, Center for International Commercial & Investment Law, Colombia Law School, United States 
  • Segun Osuntokun, Managing Partner, Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner, United Kingdom 
  • Mohamed Shelbaya, Founding Partner, Gaillard Banifatemi Shelbaya Disputes, France 
  • Naomi Tarawali, Partner, Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton LLP, United Kingdom 

 

12.55 – 14.25 

Lunch 

14.30 – 15.20 

Legislative changes in African arbitration framework 

The purpose of this session is to examine recent legislative developments in the African arbitration community, with a focus on the Nigerian Arbitration and Conciliation Bill 2022. The panel will review the new innovations in the bill, including the establishment of an Award Review Tribunal.  

Additionally, the session will include a comparative analysis of legislative changes in Africa and other regions, such as the United Kingdom, Tanzania, the East African countries, OHADA's arbitration changes in the past few years, and Morocco's recent changes in its arbitration law. 

 

Session Coordinator: 

  • Sotonye Amachree, Senior Associate, Ajumogobia & Okeke, Nigeria  

 

Moderator: 

  • Folashade Abosede Alli, Principal Partner, Folashade Alli & Associates., Nigeria 

 

  • Ghiyta Iraqi, Partner, I&I Law Firm, Morocco 
  • Abdul Jinadu, Barrister and Arbitrator, Keating Chambers, United Kingdom 
  • Funmi Roberts, Principal, Funmi Roberts & Co., Nigeria  
  • Leyou Tameru, Founder, I-Arb Africa, Ethiopia; Member, ICC International Court of Arbitration 

 

15.25 – 16.15 

Doctrine Africaine en matière d’arbitrage international : Une révolution nécessaire 

 

Il n'est pas chose rare dans les procédures arbitrales ayant pour droit applicable le droit d’un pays du continent africain ou de l’espace OHADA de constater que les arbitres se tournent vers la jurisprudence ou la doctrine française ou britannique pour étayer leur raisonnement. Ceci est en grande partie dû à l'absence d'un corps de doctrine fourni et accessible pour les praticiens de l’arbitrage international contribuant à diffuser la jurisprudence des tribunaux africains. Il semble donc nécessaire de mener une réflexion pour décrypter les raisons de ces lacunes doctrinales et préconiser des solutions en exhortant les praticiens africains à se saisir de la question.  

 

Session Coordinator: 

  • Diamana Diawara, Director, Arbitration and ADR for Africa, International Chamber of Commerce, Paris

 

Moderator:  

  • Caroline Duclercq, Partner, Medici, France 

 

  • Pierre Daureu, Founding Partner, Talex International, France
  • Adama Soro, Founding Partner, SCPA SORO, BAKO & Associés, Ivory Coast 
  • Habibatou Touré, Senior Legal Counsel, Habibatou Touré, Senegal 
  • Alexandre Vaggenheim, Vice President of Global Legal Data, Jus Mundi, France 

 

16.20 – 17.10  

The role of ethics and competence in promoting access to justice in international arbitration 

 

Access to justice is a fundamental human right and a critical component in ensuring fair and equitable resolution of disputes. International arbitration in Africa must uphold ethical and competent standards to guarantee equal access to justice for all parties. The panel will examine any instances of corruption in international arbitration. 

 

This involves maintaining the impartiality and independence of arbitrators, transparency in proceedings, and due process of law. The competence of arbitrators, including their understanding of the law and cultural context of the parties involved, is also essential in ensuring access to justice. 

 

Adherence to these ethical and competency standards fosters trust in the international arbitration system and ensures that it remains an effective and reliable means of resolving disputes in Africa. 

 

In this session, the panel will discuss how the selection of arbitrators (aimed to include particular competencies) in arbitrations seated in African countries can lead to effective representation of parties. Additionally, the discussion will cover the interpretation of local laws and the need for an Africa-specific perspective in resolving disputes. 

 

Session Coordinator: 

  • Rehoboth Juwah, Associate, AELEX, Nigeria  

 

Moderator:  

  • Wale Akoni, SAN, Managing Partner, Babalakin & Co., Nigeria 

  

  • Greg Falkof, Partner, Mischon de Raya, United Kingdom 
  • Nagla Nassar, Managing Partner, Nassar Law, Egypt 
  • Patrick Taylor, Partner, Debevoise & Plimpton, United Kingdom 
  • Daniel Wilmot, Partner, Stewarts, United Kingdom  

 

17.10 – 17.20 

Closing remarks   

 

  • Adeyemi Agbelusi, Principal Partner, Berean Associates, Nigeria; Chair, Programme Sub Committee, International Chamber of Commerce Nigeria 

 

19.30 – 20.00 

Centenary Dinner  

Day 2

08.30 – 08.55  

Welcoming address  

 

  • Babatunde Ajibade, SAN, Vice Chairman, International Chamber of Commerce Nigeria ADR Commission; Managing Partner, S. P. A. Ajibade & Co., Nigeria 

 

09.00 – 09.50

Dispute Resolution in Africa: Striking the right balance for the next century 

 

The first session of Day 1 of the conference highlighted the African journey of the ICC and its contribution to shaping international arbitration in the region. Looking ahead, how can the world's leading dispute resolution institution best support the economic growth of Africa and secure business transactions on the continent? What are the "underused" tools in the ICC's toolbox that deserve more attention for the coming century? What are the essential elements of a robust and healthy dispute resolution practice to promote in Africa? 

 

This session will focus on the critical role of mediation and other ADR methods in resolving business disputes. It will also offer an opportunity to highlight some of the ICC centenary pledges and discuss how they can help strengthen arbitration and ADR in Africa. 

 

Session Coordinator: 

  • Kolawole Mayomi, Partner, S.P.A. Ajibade & Co., Nigeria  

Moderator: 

  • Boma Ayomide Alabi, SAN, Founding Partner, Primera Africa Legal, Nigeria 

 

  • Selma Baccari, Senior Director, Kroll, France 
  • Adedoyin Rhodes-Vivour, SAN, Managing Partner, Doyin Rhodes-Vivour & Co., Nigeria 
  • Kwadwo Sarkodie, Partner, Mayer Brown International LLP, United Kingdom 
  • Yolanda Walker, Partner, DWF Group, United Kingdom 

09.55 – 10.45 

Enforcement of arbitral awards: A comparative analysis 

 

The enforcement of arbitral awards is a critical aspect of international arbitration, and it is particularly important in Africa, where investors and businesses may face challenges in enforcing arbitral awards against states and other parties. This session will focus on the enforcement of arbitral awards in Africa and provide a comparative analysis of different approaches taken by African countries. 

 

The session will begin by examining the legal frameworks for enforcing arbitral awards in various African countries, including the relevant national laws and international conventions. The challenges faced by investors and businesses in enforcing arbitral awards in Africa, such as delays, corruption, and lack of transparency, will also be discussed. 

 

The session will explore best practices for enforcing arbitral awards in Africa, such as the use of regional arbitration institutions and the development of specialized courts and tribunals. It will consider the role of international organisations, such as UNCITRAL and ICSID, in promoting the enforcement of arbitral awards in Africa. 

 

The session will also provide a comparative analysis of different approaches to enforcing arbitral awards in Africa, including case studies of successful and unsuccessful enforcement efforts in different countries. Key factors that contribute to successful enforcement, such as political will, transparency, and effective legal systems, will be identified. 

 

Overall, this session will provide valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities for enforcing arbitral awards in Africa and will help to identify best practices for promoting investment and resolving disputes in the region. 

 

Session Coordinator: 

  • Foluke Akinmoladun, Managing Solicitor, Trizon Law Chambers, Nigeria 
 

Moderator: 

  • Olusola Adegbonmire, Managing Partner, Sola Ajijola & Co., Nigeria  

 

  • Hamid Abdulkareem, Counsel, Three Crowns, United Kingdom  
  • Nikhil Desai, Director, JMiles & Co., Kenya 
  • Yaye Diabaté, Associate, Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer, France 
  • Dorothy Udeme Ufot, SAN, Managing Partner, Dorothy Ufot & Co., Nigeria; Chair, International Chamber of Commerce Nigeria Commission on Arbitration & ADR 

 

10.45-11.15

Coffee break

11.20 – 12.10  

The growing importance of third-party funding in international arbitration: Need for regulation and mandatory disclosure 

 

This session will explore the increasing prevalence of third-party funding in international arbitration and the potential implications for transparency, fairness, and ethics. The benefits and risks of third-party funding will be discussed, including the potential benefits of providing access to justice for claimants who may not have the financial resources to pursue their claims without third-party funding, as well as the risks of conflicts of interest, influence on the arbitration process, and the potential for frivolous or unmeritorious claims. 

 

The session will also consider the need for disclosure of third-party funding arrangements, both to ensure transparency and fairness in the arbitration process and to prevent conflicts of interest. Best practices for disclosure, including the types of information that should be disclosed and when disclosure should be made, will be discussed. 

 

Additionally, the session will consider the potential benefits and challenges of mandatory disclosure of third-party funding arrangements, particularly in light of recent developments in international arbitration rules and regulations. 

 

Overall, the session aims to provide an opportunity for participants to engage in a robust discussion on the role of third-party funding in international arbitration, the need for disclosure, and the potential implications for the integrity and fairness of the arbitration process. 

 

Session Coordinator: 

  • Rachael Osibu, Managing Partner, Osibogun & Partners, Nigeria 

Moderator: 

  • Babatunde Ajibade, SAN, Vice Chairman, International Chamber of Commerce Nigeria ADR Commission; Managing Partner, S.P.A. Ajibade & Co., Nigeria 

 

  • Clément Fouchard, Partner, Reed Smith, France 
  • Alexandra Johnson, Partner, Pestalozzi Attorneys at Law, Nigeria  
  • Samantha Nataf, Partner & Co-Head of International Arbitration, De Gaulle Fleurance et Associés, France 
  • Ikpeme Nkebem, Secretary General, Africa Arbitration Association, Nigeria  

 

12.15 – 13.05 

Investment arbitration and natural resource development in Africa 

 

This session will explore the relationship between investment arbitration and natural resource development in Africa, examining how investment arbitration has been utilised in disputes relating to mining, oil and gas exploration, and other natural resource development. The discussion will analyse the implications of these cases on sustainable development and environmental protection.  

 

The session will also provide an opportunity to explore key issues in investment arbitration in Africa and to discuss best practices for promoting investment and resolving disputes in the region. 

 

Session Coordinator: 

  • Chinwe Odigboegwu, Lead Consultant & Trainer, Truce City LP, Nigeria 
 

Moderator:  

  • Wale Olawoyin, SAN, Managing Partner, Olawoyin & Olawoyin; Professor of Commercial Law, University of Lagos Faculty of Law, Nigeria 

 

  • Thomas Kendra, Partner, Hogan Lovells, France 
  • Tsegaye Laurendeau, Partner, Signature Litigation, United Kingdom 
  • Kolawole Mayomi, Partner, S.P.A. Ajibade & Co., Nigeria  
  • Rose Rameau, Professor, Georgia State University College of Law, United States of America; Principal, Rameau International Law 

 

13.10 - 14.40

Lunch

14.45 – 15.35 

Securing equality, diversity and inclusivity in international arbitration and ADR 

 

This session will cover, for example, the fact that there have been an increased number of appointments in the number of arbitrators from African countries appointed to sit on the  ICC and international commercial arbitration tribunals, but that improvement needs to be made regarding appointing experts of African origin. 

 

Session Coordinator:  

  • Emuobonuvie Majemite, Partner, PUNUKA Attorneys and Solicitors, Nigeria 

 

Session Moderator:  

  • Isaiah Bozimo, Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Government of Delta State, Nigeria 

 

  • Fidelis Adewole, Managing Partner, G. Elias, Nigeria 
  • Marily Paralika, Partner, Fieldfisher, France 
  • Hakeem Seriki, Solicitor and Consultant, Steptoe & Johnson; Associate Professor, University of East Anglia, United Kingdom 
  • Rob Wilkins, Partner, Pinsent Masons, South Africa 

 

15.40 – 16.30 

Résoudre des litiges au profit des clients : Quel modèle pour l’avenir ? 

 

Au centre de l’écosystème de l’arbitrage international se trouvent les clients de l’arbitrage. En Afrique, ceux-ci sont à la fois des représentants des Etats et du secteur privé. Nous entendrons à l’occasion de cette session quelle est leur vision de la direction que doit prendre la pratique du règlement des différends sur le continent africain pour l’avenir. 

 

Session Coordinator:  

  • Folarin Shashore, Associate, Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner, United Kingdom  

 

Moderator:  

  • Sylvie Bebohi Ebongo, Co-Founder & Partner, HBE Avocats, Cameroon 

 

  • Aïcha Brahma, Partner, Brahma Associates, Morocco
  • Yoro Moussa Diallo, Judicial Agent, Ministry of Finance and Budget, Senegal 
  • Aïssatou Ndong, Senior Associate, GENI & KEBE Lawyers, Senegal

 

16.35 – 17.25 

Practical considerations for more efficiency in arbitration 

 

This session will examine tactics to improve procedural efficiency and save costs like the use of witness statements, experts, etc. 

 

On a preliminary basis the following issues may be considered by the parties to ensure the efficiency of the proceedings: 

 

  • The selection of the institutional rules governing the procedure. 
  • Choosing the right arbitrators by establishing the professional qualifications required for a specific dispute and investigating the potential arbitrators to avoid any conflict (here). 

 

During the proceedings, parties should consider the following topics: 

 

  • The use of information technology in arbitration (the legal framework and IT, electronic case management) (here). 
  • The use of witness statements and experts (joint experts report, witness and expert examination via video conference). 

 

Session Coordinator:  

  • Ademola Bamgbose, Senior Associate, Hogan Lovells, United Kingdom 

 

Moderator:  

  • Yejide Osunkeye, Principal Partner, YBO Legal, Nigeria 

 

  • Fabian Ajogwu OFR, SAN, Senior Partner Kenna Partners, Nigeria
  • Duncan Bagshaw, Partner, Howard Kennedy LLP, United Kingdom   
  • Charles Nairac, Partner, White & Case, France 
  • Dianne Okoko, Principal Partner, Marcus-Okoko & Co., Nigeria 

 

17.10 – 18.00 

Debate: Is arbitration living up to its promise?  

 

Both sides of this debate are in agreement that international arbitration is, undoubtedly, a preferred method for cross-border dispute resolution.  This debate is designed to answer the question of how arbitration delivers upon its promise rather than focusing on whether it does or not. 

 

This session will delve into the issues being faced by clients within and outside of African countries and what they want from this form of dispute resolution. 

 

The discussion will revolve around the purpose of arbitration, as distinguished from other forms of dispute resolution; its close connection and hybrid interaction with other forms of ADR mechanisms; and its emergence as a pioneering method of dispute resolution in modern times. 

 

The debaters will also focus on the drivers for stakeholders involved in arbitration and whether, in its current form, arbitration caters to the client’s needs across the board or not. 

 

The panel will also touch upon the specific needs of clients at a global level from a comparative standpoint and how a one-size-fits-all approach is not reflective of the client’s expectations. 

 

Session Coordinator: 

  • Nasiru Tijani, Principal Partner, Nasiru Tijani & Co.; Deputy Director-General and Head of Lagos Campus, Nigerian Law School, Nigeria 

 

Moderator: 

  • Seyilayo Ojo, Senior Partner, S. O. & C. Legal, Nigeria 
  • Paul Idornigie, SAN, Managing Partner, Paul Obo Idornigie & Associates, Nigeria 
  • Reza Mohtashami, KC, Partner, Three Crowns LLP, United Kingdom 

 

18.00 – 18.30 

Closing remarks 

 

  • Adedapo Tunde-Olowu, SAN, Managing Partner, AELEX, Nigeria; Co-Chairman, Planning Committee 
  • Jean Chiazor Anishere, SAN, Principal Partner, Jean Chiazor & Partners, Nigeria; Co-Chairman, Planning Committee 
  • Diamana Diawara, Director, Arbitration and ADR, Africa, International Chamber of Commerce, France 
  • Olubunmi Osuntuyi, Secretary General, International Chamber of Commerce Nigeria 

 



Ahead of the 7th ICC Africa Conference on International Arbitration, please join us at the hybrid event ICC YAAF: the Present Future - New Horizons in Arbitration which will take place on 30 May 2023 at 12.30-17.00 (WAT) at the Lagos Court of Arbitration.


To sign up, please click here

(Lagos Time Zone)

20:30-21:00

Registration and Welcoming of participants

21:00-02:00

Networking Dance Party

Confirmed speakers

Training 

Mélida Hodgson 

Partner, Arnold & Porter, United States; Vice Chair, ICC Institute of World Business Law,  Paris 

 

Ucheora Onwuamaegbu 

International Attorney, ArentFox Schiff, United States 

Laurie Achtouk-Spivak 

Partner, Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton LLP, France; Member, ICC Institute of World Business Law

Olusola  Adegbonmire 

Managing Partner,  Sola Ajijola & Co, Nigeria 

Sylvie Bebohi Ebongo 

Co-Founder & Partner, HBE Avocats, France; Founder & Managing Partner,  HBE Avocats, Cameroon 

Tsegaye Laurendeau 

Partner, Signature Litigation LLP, United Kingdom 

Benjamin Ng’eno 

Deputy Counsel, ICC International Court of Arbitration, Paris  

 

Enobong Ozor

Team Lead, Contracting, Commercial & Non-Environmental Litigation, Global Litigation, The Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria Limited, Nigeria

Guled Yusuf 

Partner, Allen & Overy, United Kingdom; Member, ICC International Court of Arbitration

Conference 

Girgis Abd El-Shahid 

Managing Partner, Shahid Law Firm, Egypt 

Hamid Abdulkareem 

Counsel, Three Crowns LLP, United Kingdom 

Folashade Abosede Alli 

Principal Partner, Folashade Alli and Associates, Nigeria  

Olusola Adegbonmire 

Managing Partner, Sola Ajijola & Co., Nigeria 

Funke Adekoya, SAN 

Independent Arbitrator, Funke Adekoya & Co., Nigeria  

Fidelis Adewole 

Managing Partner, G. Elias, Nigeria 

Adeyemi Agbelusi 

Principal Partner, Berean Associates,Nigeria; Chair, Programme Sub Committee 

Olisa Agbakoba 

Senior Partner & Head of Arbitration and ADR, Olisa Agbakoba Legal, Nigeria 

Marietta  Agyeiwaa Brew 

Managing Partner, Lithur Brew & Company, Ghana 

Sabrina Aïnouz 

Partner, International Dispute Resolution Practice Group, Squire Patton Boggs, France; Member, ICC International Court of Arbitration 

Miannaya Aja Essien, SAN 

Senior Advocate of Nigeria and Chartered Arbitrator, Principles Law Partnership, Nigeria  

 

Fabian Ajogwu OFR, SAN 

 Senior Partner Kenna Partners, Nigeria 

Babatunde Ajibade, SAN 

Managing partner of S. P. A. Ajibade & Co, Nigeria; Vice Chairman, ICCN ADR Commission 

Foluke Akinmoladun 

Managing Solicitor, Trizon Law Chambers, Nigeria  

Wale Akoni, SAN 

Managing Partner, Babalakin & Co., Nigeria 

Laura Alakija 

Inpedenent Arbitrator , Nigeria  

Sotonye Amachree 

Senior Associate, Ajumogobia & Okeke, Nigeria 

Boma Ayomide Alabi, SAN 

Founding Partner, Primera Africa Legal, Nigeria 

Selma Baccari 

Senior Director, Kroll, France 

Duncan Bagshaw 

Partner, Howard Kennedy LLP, United Kingdom 

Ademola Bamgbose 

Senior Associate, Hogan Lovells, United Kingdom 

Jonathan Barnes 

Partner, Bowman Law Firm, South Africa 

Ikpeme Bassey Nkebem 

Secretary General, African Arbitration Association, Nigeria 

Sylvie Bebohi Ebongo 

Co-Founder & Partner, HBE Avocats, France; Founder & Managing Partner, HBE Avocats, Cameroon 

George A. Bermann 

Director, Center for International Commercial & Investment Arbitration, Colombia Law School, United States 

Joachim Bile Aka 

Partner, Bilé-Aka, Brizoua Bi & Associés, Ivory Coast 

Aicha Brahma 

Partner, Brahma Avocats, Morocco 

Isaiah Bozimo  

Partner, Broderick Bozimo & Co., Nigeria  

Jean Chiazor Anishere, SAN 

Principal Partner, Jean Chiazor & Partners (Ofianyi Chambers), Nigeria;  Co-Chairman, Planning Committee 

Pierre Daureu 

Founding Partner, Talex International, France 

John W.H. Denton  

Secretary General, International Chamber of Commerce, France 

Nikhil Desai 

Director, Jmiles & Co., Kenya 

Diamana Diawara 

Director, Arbitration and ADR for Africa, International Chamber of Commerce, Paris 

Yaye Diabaté 

Associate, Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer, France 

Caroline Duclercq 

Partner, Medici Law, France 

Tony Elumelu 

Chairman, United Bank for Africa (UBA) Group; Chairman, Transcorp Group; Founder, The Tony Elumelu Foundation, Nigeria 

Greg Falkof 

Partner, Mishcon de Reya LLP, United Kingdom 

Alexander G. Fessas 

Secretary General, ICC International Court of Arbitration, Paris; Director, ICC Dispute Resolution Services  

Clement Fouchard 

Partner, Reed Smith, France 

Paul Idornigie, SAN 

Managing Partner, Paul Obo Idornigie & Associates, Nigeria 

Ghiyta Iraqi  

Partner, I&I Law Firm, Morocco 

Bashir Jamoh 

Director-General and Chief Executive Officer, the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Nigeria 

Abdul Jinadu 

Barrister and Arbitrator, Keating Chambers, United Kingdom  

Alexandra C. Johnson 

Partner, Pestalozzi Attorneys at Law, Switzerland  

Rehoboth Juwah 

Associate, AELEX, Nigeria 

Mouhamed Kebe 

Managing Partner, Geni & Kebe, Senegal 

Thomas Kendra 

Partner, Hogan Lovells, France  

Tsegaye Laurendeau 

Partner, Signature London LLP, United Kingdom  

Y.C Maikyau, SAN 

President, Nigerian Bar Association, Nigeria 

Emuobonuvie Majemite 

Partner, PUNUKA Attourneys and Solicitors, Nigeria  

Kolawole Mayomi 

Partner, S.P.A. Ajibade & Co., Nigeria 

Reza Mohtashami  

Partner, Three Crowns LLP, United Kingdom 

Yoro Moussa Diallo 

Agent Judiciaire de L'Etat du Sénégal · Ministère des Finances et du Budget, Sénégal 

Charles Nairac 

Partner, White & Case LLP, France  

Nagla Nassar 

Senior Partner, Nassar Law, Egypt 

Samantha Nataf 

Partner & Co-Head of International Arbitration, De Gaulle Fleurance, France 

Achille Ngwanza 

Managing Partner, Jus Africa, France 

Julius Nkafu 

Barrister, Great James Street Chambers, United Kingdom  

Ikpeme Nkebem 

General Manager · ICAMA, United Kingdom ; Secretary General, Africa Arbitration Association 

Tolu Obamuroh 

Associate, White & Case LLP, France 

Chinwe Odigboegwu 

Lead Consultant & Trainer, Truce City LP, Nigeria 

Elizabeth Oger-Gross 

Partner, White & Case LLP, France 

Diane Okoko 

Principal Partner, Marcus-Okoko & Co., Nigeria  

Adewale Olawoyin, SAN 

Managing Partner, Olawoyin & Olawoyin; Professor of Commercial Law, University of Lagos Faculty of Law, Nigeria  

Oscar Onyema 

Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Nigerian Exchange Group Plc, Nigeria 

Rachael Osibu 

Managing Partner, Osibogun and Partners, Nigeria  

Yejide Osunkeye 

Principal Partner, YBO Legal, Nigeria  

Segun Osuntokun 

Managing Partner, Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner, United Kingdom  

Seyilayo Ojo 

Senior Partner,   S. O. & C. Legal. Nigeriz 

Marily Paralika 

Partner, Fieldfisher, France  

Tafadzwa Pasipanodya  

Partner ,  International Litigation and Arbitration Department; Chair, Africa Practice, Foley Hoag, United States  

Rose Rameau 

Principal, Rameau International Law; Professor, Georgia State University College of Law, United States 

Adedoyin Rhodes-Vivour, SAN 

Managing Partner, Doyin Rhodes-Vivour & Co., Nigeria  

Funmi Roberts 

Principal, Funmi Roberts & Co., Nigeria  

Babajide Sanwo-Olu 

Executive Governor, Lagos State, Nigeria 

Claudia Salomon 

President, ICC International Court of Arbitration, France 

Kwadwo Sarkodie 

Partner, Mayer Brown International LLP, United Kingdom 

Babatunde Savage 

Chairman, ICC Nigeria, Nigeria  

Hakeem Seriki 

Solicitor and Consultant, Steptoe & Johnson, United Kingdom 

Adama Soro 

Associé Co Gérant, · SCPA SORO, BAKO & Associés, Ivory Coast 

Folarin Shasore 

Associate, Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner LLP, United Kingdom 

Mohamed Shelbaya 

Founding Partner, Gaillard Banifatemi Shelbaya Disputes, France 

Leyou Tameru 

Independent Arbitrator; Founder, I-Arb Africa, Ethiopia   

Naomi Tarawali 

Partner, Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton LLP, United Kingdom  

Patrick Taylor 

Partner, Debevoise & Plimpton, United Kingdom  

Nasiru Tijani  

Principal Partner, Nasiru Tijani & Co., Nigeria; Deputy-Director and Head of Lagos Campus, Nigerian Law School, Nigeria 

Habibatou Touré 

Senior Legal Counsel, Habibatou Touré, Senegal 

Adedapo Tunde-Olowu, SAN 

Managing Partner, AELEX; Co-Chairman, Planning Committee, Nigeria 

Dorothy Ufot, SAN 

Founding Partner, Dorothy Ufot & Co; Chair, ICC Nigeria Commission on Arbitration and ADR, Nigeria  

Alexandre Vaggenheim 

Head of Impact & Global Relations, Jus Mundi, France   

Yolanda Walker 

Partner, DWF Group, United Kingdom 

Rob Wilkins 

Partner, Pinsent Masons, United Kingdom  

Daniel Wilmot 

Partner, Stewarts, United Kingdom  

Venue and dates

Date of the Training: 31 May 2023 

Date of the Conference: 1-2 June 2023 

Venue Training and Conference:  EKO HOTELS & SUITES, Plot 1415 Adetokunbo Ademola Street, Victoria Island, Lagos 

 

Registration fees

Registration fees for non-ICC members*:  7th ICC Africa Conference 

Early-Bird (until May 7th 2023): ₦156,800 (around $320)

Standard (May 8th – 24 May 2023): ₦215,600 (around $440)

Last Chance (25 May 2023 - 2 June 2023): ₦264,000 (around $540)

Training 

Early-Bird (until May 7th 2023): ₦147,980 (around $302)

Standard (May 8th 2023 – 24 May 2023): ₦196,980 (around $402)

Last Chance (25 May 2023 - 2 June 2023): ₦245,980 (around $502)

Package: Training and Conference (20% discount)

Early-Bird (until May 7th 2023): ₦280,280 (around $572)

Standard (May 8th – 24 May 2023): ₦388,080 (around $792)

Last Chance (25 May 2023 - 2 June 2023): ₦437,080 (around $892)

Registration fees for ICC members:  20% discount on the above rates.Please contact your local NC to obtain your discount code. 

Special discounts:

Group rates: Register 5 persons from the same company and pay for 4. 

In-House Counsel and Government representatives may benefit from a 20% discount.

ICC Institute Members and Full-Time Academics may benefit from a 20% discount. 

Please contact ICC Nigeria  for more details bunmi@iccng.org / +2348035051058  esther@iccng.org / +2348186700758

Travel and accommodation

Participants are responsible for making their own travel arrangements and hotel reservations. ICC Nigeria has however negotiated preferential room rates with the hotels in Lagos listed below. The list with the detailed prices will be sent in the registration confirmation email. 

 

Should you wish to make a reservation, please contact the hotels directly mentioning the 7th ICC Africa Conference or ICC's client discount code, if there is one.  

 

Contact person: Adewale Adedeji 

Discount code: ICCAACN23 

Telephone: +234 1 277 2700-2 / +234 1 460 6100-19  


Contact person: Kafayat Adewusi-Adelere 

Discount code : ICCMay2023 

Telephone: +234 1 277 9000  

 

Contact person: Kafayat Adewusi-Adelere 

Email: Joy Saiki R.  

Telephone: +234 1 280 6600 

 

Contact person: Funmi Adebesin 

Telephone: + 234 808 663 4110 / +234 708 061 0000   

 

When making your reservation, please give a credit card number to guarantee your accommodation. 

Working Languages

Conference: English and French with simultaneous interpretation
Training: English only

Cancellation policy of ICC Nigeria:


50% of the registration fee will be refunded if notice of cancellation is received in writing before Friday 28 April 2023. Cancellations after this date are not refundable.

Subject to agreement from ICC Nigeria prior to the event, the registration may be transferred to another person from the same company or organization at no extra charge. Updated registration information will be required. Please note that ICC reserves the right to cancel this event or to make minor alterations to the content and timing of the programme or to the identity of the speakers. In the unlikely event of cancellation, delegates will be offered a full refund. ICC will not, however, be held responsible for any related expense incurred by the participant.

Credits, hours and points:


This event is eligible for credits/hours/points before the French and New York Bars. Please note that this is subject to validation of ICC Global Events' applications (or individual application, as necessary) to the afore mentioned Bars.

Further, ICC Global Events is a State Bar of California approved MCLE provider.

Please contact ICCGlobalEvents@iccwbo.org if you have any questions or would like further information.

Disclaimer

The photos and audiovisual recordings taken at this meeting/event may be used and published by ICC, its subsidiaries or affiliates, for information or promotional purposes in printed materials or online including on ICC websites and social media. Participation in the meeting/event implies agreement to such use of photos or audiovisual recordings in which the participant may appear unless ICC receives written notification to the contrary.

ICC AFRICA 20237th ICC Africa Conference
An opportunity for every marketing goal.

ICC offers your company many ways to sponsor this conference. Tailor-made packages are available to suit your firm's needs. For more information contact sponsorship@iccwbo.org.

SPONSOR BENEFITS  

PLATINUM 

€20,000

DIAMOND

€15,000 

GOLD

€10,000

SILVER

€7,000

BRONZE
€4,000

BRANDING

€3,000

Exclusive evening reception Sponsor OR exclusive event App Sponsor (as available) 

 .

.

Opportunity to host a social event**

 .

.

Invitation to participate as guest contributor on the ICC blog on a topic related to the event*

.

Strategic logo placement in banners & collaterals

.

.

.

.

.

Private meeting room reserved for 1 hour 

x

.

.

.

.

.

Pop up notification on ICC DRS App

x

x

.

.

.

.

.Testimonial quote on the event page*

 .

.

Sponsor a lunch (as available) 

.

Participants list available in priority 

.

Company video to be played during session breaks (including subtitles)*

1min

30sec

30sec

.

.

.

Opportunity to provide Lanyards OR Notebooks & Pens OR Water Bottles OR Delegate Bags OR Mobile Charging Stations (as available)**

 .

.

Sponsor a coffee break (as available) 

.

Exhibition space + exhibitor pass
(Table maybe shared depending on availability) 

.

.

Profile included on the ICC DRS app 

.

Include a branded item in the participant bags**

.

Pre-event introduction to participants 

.

.

30% discount on ICC e-publications 

.

.

Use of the official event Sponsor logo 

x

 .

Logo on all digital promotional materials 

x

x

x

x

x

.

Special reduced registrations (20% reduction) 

10

1 (25%)

.

Complimentary registration  

10 

2

1

Sponsor recognition on ICC arbitration social media channels 

x

Signage at venue (banners, backdrop…) and logo on onsite promotional materials 

x

*All content to be approved by ICC
** Sponsor to bear all associated costs
Our sponsorship packages do not include speaking opportunities. Please let us know should you wish to submit a speaker candidate.

For more information, please contact:

ICCGlobalEvents@iccwbo.org

Co-organisers

We thank our sponsors

We thank our supporters