NIGERIAN BAR ASSOCIATION PRESIDENT YC MAIKYAU APPOINTED TO PRESTIGIOUS PERMANENT COURT OF ARBITRATION

In a notable advancement for Nigeria’s legal sector, Yakubu Chono Maikyau, OON, SAN, the 31st President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), has been appointed to the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA). The PCA, established in 1899 and located in The Hague, Netherlands, is an intergovernmental organization providing various dispute resolution services to the international community.

In 2024, the PCA marks its 125th anniversary, celebrating over a century of facilitating international peace and justice. The anniversary featured discussions on the future of international arbitration and the PCA’s evolving contributions to global legal frameworks.

Nigerian Bar Association President YC Maikyau Appointed to Prestigious Permanent Court of Arbitration
Its primary functions include arbitrating and resolving disputes between states, state entities, intergovernmental organizations, and private parties. Operating under the principles of international law, the PCA offers a forum for the peaceful resolution of conflicts through arbitration and other means.

The Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) has appointed members from Africa, reflecting its commitment to inclusivity and global representation in international arbitration. The PCA has recognized the growing importance of African legal professionals and arbitrators in the international legal landscape. These appointments help ensure that African nations’ perspectives and legal traditions are adequately represented in resolving international disputes.

Some African legal experts appointed to the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) include Olufolake Solanke (Nigeria), a distinguished Senior Advocate of Nigeria and the first female Senior Advocate in Nigeria, with extensive experience in arbitration and legal practice.

Abdulqawi Ahmed Yusuf (Somalia): Yusuf, a former judge and president of the International Court of Justice (ICJ) has made significant contributions to international law and arbitration.

Yakubu Chonoko Maikyau’s appointment as a member of the PCA continues this trend, highlighting the increasing influence and recognition of African legal practitioners in global arbitration. His role will involve arbitrating and resolving disputes between states and state entities, leveraging his extensive experience and expertise to contribute to the peaceful resolution of conflicts.

Yakubu Maikyau, OON, SAN, was appointed to the Permanent Court of Arbitration, showcasing his leadership in international legal affairs.
In November 2023, the NBA President undertook a significant visit to The Hague, where he met with senior officials of the International Criminal Court (ICC), the International Court of Justice (ICJ), and the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA). During these discussions, he explored potential partnership opportunities to build the capacity of members of the Nigerian Bar Association, thereby equipping them to better serve Nigeria’s interests.

One of the most significant outcomes of this visit was the successful establishment of a partnership with the African Institute of International Law (AIIL), based in Arusha, Tanzania. This collaboration, facilitated by the AIIL’s founding body, the African Foundation at The Hague, led to the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the NBA and the AIIL on January 31, 2024. This agreement followed the approval of the NBA’s National Executive Council (NEC) at its meeting held in Abuja on January 7, 2024.

Maikyau’s notable achievements and distinguished career have earned him significant international recognition and appointments. As a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators in the UK and the Institute of Chartered Mediators and Conciliators (ICMC), he has established himself as a leading authority in arbitration and mediation. His educational background includes a Diploma in International Commercial Arbitration from the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators in London and a Diploma in Ministerial Training emphasising social leadership.

“A lawyer lives for the direction of his people and the advancement of the cause of his country.” Sapara Williams.

Maikyau’s professional responsibilities include serving as a Permanent Court of Arbitration member at The Hague since 2023 and as a delegate to the ICC Commission on Arbitration and ADR from 2024. Between 2016 and 2022, he was a member of the Panel of Conciliators at the International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID). As President of the Nigerian Bar Association, he has been a strong advocate for the judiciary’s welfare and the 2024 Judicial Remuneration Bill, further enhancing his reputation on the international stage.

Maikyau’s tenure as the 31st NBA President has been marked by noteworthy initiatives to promote the rule of law and enhance access to justice for all Nigerians. His leadership has been instrumental in advancing the NBA’s mission and strengthening the legal profession in Nigeria. Notably, he has championed numerous initiatives to improve the Nigerian legal system, including providing pro bono legal services to indigent individuals and advocating for the rights of inmates.

As Maikyau begins his tenure at the PCA, he carries the hopes and expectations of a country committed to advancing the principles of justice and international cooperation. His appointment is proof of his exceptional legal prowess and dedication to the legal profession, both domestically and internationally.

Akorede Habeeb Lawal

National Publicity Secretary.