The Reach of Alternative Dispute Mechanism and Information Communication Technology in Nigeria

Due to the delays, high costs, geographical limitations, and procedural inefficiencies that characterise the traditional dispute resolution system, the advent of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in dispute resolution mechanisms has become increasingly important in Nigeria's legal system. However, its implementation faces challenges. Against the backdrop of global digital transformation and the push for modernisation in legal services, particularly accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, Nigeria finds itself at a juncture where the adoption of ICT-driven dispute resolution mechanisms has become imperative rather than optional. The aim of this paper is to evaluate the effectiveness of ICT integration in dispute resolution mechanisms within Nigeria's legal system. The paper finds that ICT integration in dispute resolution has its benefits in terms of cost reduction, improved efficiency, and enhanced access to justice for underserved communities. However, inadequate infrastructure, digital literacy gaps, and regulatory uncertainties persist as challenges. This paper therefore recommends legislative reforms, infrastructure development, capacity building, and enhanced security measures. It concludes that successful ICT integration in dispute resolution requires an approach that balances technological advancement with the fundamental principles of justice. That is, with proper implementation and stakeholder cooperation, ICT-driven dispute resolution can greatly improve Nigeria's justice delivery system