ADVANCING OIL AND GAS ARBITRATION IN NIGERIA: A LEGAL ROADMAP FOR DOMICILIATION

Abstract

This article presents a legal roadmap for the domiciliation of oil and gas arbitration in Nigeria, highlighting strategic reforms, legislative innovations, and policy actions aimed at repositioning Nigeria as a preferred arbitration seat. It critically examines the Arbitration and Mediation Act 2023, the National Arbitration and ADR Policy 2025, and the Petroleum Industry Act 2021, identifying gaps and proposing actionable interventions. Drawing lessons from comparative jurisdictions, the article advocates for legal mandates, specialized frameworks, and institutional enhancements to foster investor confidence and ensure that disputes arising from Nigeria’s oil and gas sector are resolved within its jurisdiction to retain capital spend.