The relevance of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) in the Construction Industry in Nigeria
Written by Moriam Akorede Bakare (MNIQS) The term “Alternative Dispute Resolution” (ADR), is used generally to describe the methods and procedures used in resolving disputes either as alternatives to the traditional dispute resolution mechanism of the court, litigation, or in some cases supplementary to such mechanisms. Consequently, this article highlights the relevance, effectiveness and popularity of ADR in the construction industry in Nigeria. Many researchers have found disputes as a major cause of cost overrun, time overrun, project abandonment and severed business relationships. The complex nature of construction project, characterized with the involvement of a large number of participant for its successful completion embeds disputes waiting to happen, hence the use of ADR in resolving construction disputes cannot be over emphasized. Dispute resolution through ADR avoids what can be best described as brinkmanship and acrimony, reduces hostility and antagonism, re