Professor Olawuyi, SAN calls for policy coherence and urgent capacity development to avoid exploitative international trade agreements
Professor of International Law and President of the International Law Association-Nigerian Branch, Professor Damilola Olawuyi, SAN, has described the unilateral signing of international agreements by sub-national entities such as Ogun State, as a lamentable violation of Nigeria’s constitution and contrary to the tenets of international law.
Speaking today on the Morning Brief on Channels Television, the Senior Advocate of Nigeria called for enhanced policy coordination and coherence by all tiers of government to avoid policy misalignments and to improve investor confidence needed to attract sustainable foreign investments to Nigeria. Speaking on the need for ethical diplomacy, he called on responsible states to the wary of giving effect to exploitative investment agreements that are contrary to Nigeria’s public policy.
Professor Olawuyi also called for enhanced capacity development and training on international law and diplomacy for government officials in ministries and agencies saddled with any aspect of contract negotiations. He lamented the situation whereby many officials go to the negotiation table with little or no knowledge of the intricacies of international law. In this regard, he encouraged governments at all levels to engage in the training opportunities provided by the International Law Association.
Established in Brussels in 1873, the ILA’s objective and mandate is to promote “the study, clarification, and development of international law, both public and private, and the furtherance of international understanding and respect for international law.” For example, following the resounding success of the inaugural course held in Abuja, applications are now being accepted for the Certificate of Advanced Studies in International Law & Diplomacy Course to be held in Lagos from October 16-22, 2024. Early bird deadline for registration is 15 September 2024. More information: https://ilanigeria.org.ng/casil