Leading diplomats and international law experts have called for urgent investment in homegrown capacity development and training in international law, stressing its critical role in enhancing Nigeria’s global trade and diplomatic leverage.
This call was made during the 2025 Certificate of Advanced Studies in International Law and Diplomacy—a high-level, week-long course organised by the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies (NIALS) in collaboration with the International Law Association (ILA), Nigerian Branch.
The programme, held in Abuja, aimed to equip participants with the specialised knowledge and practical skills essential for engaging effectively in global legal and diplomatic arenas.
In a keynote address, Ambassador Safiu Olukayode Olaniyan, Nigeria’s former envoy to Sudan, emphasized that international law is a critical tool for navigating global complexities, fostering cooperation, and balancing state sovereignty with collective interests. Drawing on his diplomatic experience, he highlighted key strategies for aligning diplomacy with national development goals.
Attorney General of the Federation, Prince Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), represented by Fernandez Marcus-Obiene, also lent his support, affirming the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening legal and diplomatic institutions.
Other notable contributors included:
- Prof. Ibrahim Abdulqadir Abikan, Director-General of NIALS
- Prof. Damilola Olawuyi (SAN), President of ILA Nigeria and UN Expert on Business and Human Rights
- Prof. Olufemi Elias, Judge ad hoc at the International Court of Justice
- Dr. Tobiloba Moody, Director, WIPO Nigeria Office
- Eghobamien-Mshelia Esther, Vice Chair of UN CEDAW
- Clement Osuya, Secretary General of ILA Nigeria
Prof. Abikan highlighted the evolving legal landscape driven by globalisation and emerging technologies, urging Nigerian legal professionals to embrace new tools and trends in legal service delivery.
Prof. Olawuyi cautioned against the rise of “condescension diplomacy,” where global trade relations are being undermined by unilateralism and veiled threats. He stressed that reclaiming Africa’s voice on the international stage requires rigorous, locally driven training like the NIALS-ILA course.
The curriculum included advanced modules in international criminal law, trade and investment law, AI and digital governance, international arbitration, human rights, climate change, and conflict resolution. The course also explored the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), underscoring its role in regional economic integration.
Since its establishment in 1979, NIALS has served as Nigeria’s apex legal research and training institution, while the ILA—founded in 1873—continues to champion the study and development of public and private international law globally.
Through this initiative, organisers say they hope to nurture a new generation of Nigerian legal professionals equipped to advance the nation’s interests in international forums and shape global discourse through informed, strategic diplomacy.
