The Nigerian Institute of Chartered Arbitrators (NICArb) Annual Essay Competition is a prestigious platform for scholars, practitioners, and enthusiasts of Alternative Dispute Resolution to showcase their research and analytical skills. This year’s theme focuses on the evolving landscape of ADR in Nigeria and its impact on commercial dispute resolution.
Participants are invited to submit original essays exploring innovative approaches to arbitration, mediation, and other ADR mechanisms. The competition aims to foster academic excellence and contribute to the body of knowledge in dispute resolution.
Essay Topic: Designing the Next Generation of ADR Systems for the Twenty-First Century: Encouraging innovative proposals for improving accessibility, efficiency, and fairness in dispute resolution.
Benefits
Prizes to be won:Â
- 1st Prize – N500,000
- 2nd Prize – N300,000
- 3rd Prize – N200,000
Requirements
The NICArb Annual Essay Writing Competition is open to all Students, aspiring arbitrators, and young professionals with 1-2 years of post-graduation experience.
Note: Winners of previous essays are not eligible to apply.
Age:18+ years old
Eligible Professions
- Law Students
- Legal Practitioners
- Academics
- ADR Practitioners
- Corporate Counse
Selection Process
Word Limit: 5,000 words
Accepted Formats: PDF
Guidelines
- Original work, not previously published
- 3,000 – 5,000 words (excluding footnotes and bibliography)
- Proper citation using OSCOLA or Bluebook format
- Submit in PDF or DOCX format
- Include abstract (150-250 words)
- Double-spaced, 12pt Times New Roman font
- Submitted essays become property of NICArb for publication consideration
Application Documents
- Proof of identity (National ID, International Passport, or Student ID)
- Current academic institution or professional affiliation
Method of Application
For Submission send entries to:Â research@nicarb.org
For More Information,
Visit the Official Webpage
Application Deadline: August 31, 2026.
