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In today’s business world, contracts are not just paperwork — they’re your first line of protection. Yet, in Nigeria, many business owners sign poorly drafted agreements or operate without any formal documentation at all.

At Universal Solicitors & Advocates, we’ve seen how weak contracts lead to lost revenue, endless disputes, and avoidable lawsuits. If you’re running a business in Nigeria, here’s what you must know about contract enforcement—and how to protect yourself from legal disaster.

What Is Contract Enforcement?

Contract enforcement refers to the legal steps you take to ensure the terms of a signed agreement are upheld. It includes:

• Holding parties accountable for their obligations

• Seeking redress if terms are breached

• Enforcing judgments or arbitral awards if necessary

In Nigeria, contracts are governed by common law principles and various statutes such as the Contracts Act, Sale of Goods Act, and relevant case law.

Why Proper Documentation Matters

Oral agreements may be legally recognized, but proving them in court is a nightmare.

Every business relationship should be backed by a written contract that clearly spells out:

• Duties of each party

• Deliverables and timelines

• Payment terms

• Penalties for breach

• Dispute resolution procedures

A well-drafted contract is not just a formality. It’s your safety net. It prevents misunderstandings, reduces risk, and improves enforcement if things go wrong.

At Universal Solicitors & Advocates, we help businesses draft airtight contracts tailored to their unique industry and operational needs.

Key Legal Clauses You Should Never Leave Out

If your contract doesn’t contain these, you’re exposed:

1. Jurisdiction Clause

Specifies which court or legal system will handle disputes. Without it, you may end up in a hostile or foreign jurisdiction.

2. Dispute Resolution Clause

Outlines how disagreements will be resolved — through mediation, arbitration, or litigation. We often recommend arbitration for speed and confidentiality.

3. Force Majeure Clause

Protects both parties in case of unforeseen events like pandemics, war, or natural disasters.

4. Termination Clause

Defines the conditions under which the agreement can be terminated and the consequences.

5. Confidentiality Clause

Prevents either party from disclosing sensitive business information.

6. Indemnity Clause

Protects you from liability caused by the other party’s negligence or breach.

Options for Enforcing a Contract in Nigeria

When the other party breaches the agreement, here’s what you can legally do:

✅ Send a Demand Letter

This is the first step. A formal notice outlining the breach and requesting compliance or compensation.

✅ Mediation or Negotiation

In minor disputes, out-of-court settlements save time and money. We handle these confidentially on your behalf.

✅ Arbitration

If your contract includes an arbitration clause, we file a claim before a neutral panel and obtain a binding award.

✅ Litigation

If necessary, we take the matter to court, seek enforcement of rights, and claim damages or specific performance.

✅ Enforcement of Judgment

Once judgment is delivered, we move to enforce it through garnishee orders, asset seizure, or winding-up proceedings (for companies).

When to Involve a Lawyer

Early. Always early.

Waiting until a contract is breached before contacting a lawyer is like locking your doors after a robbery. Our firm:

• Drafts and reviews all your contracts

• Identifies risky clauses before you sign

• Guides you through dispute resolution

• Represents you in arbitration or court

Universal Solicitors & Advocates is trusted by SMEs, startups, and corporations across Nigeria for practical, enforceable legal contracts.

Conclusion

A strong contract is not a luxury—it’s a necessity for business survival in Nigeria. Don’t settle for templates or verbal promises. Protect your business with solid legal backing.

Need help drafting or enforcing a contract?

📧 Email: info@usalaw-ng.com
📞 Call: +234-802-847-9225, +234-707-352-9596
📍 Visit: 208 Ikorodu Road, Palm Grove, Lagos

Universal Solicitors & Advocates — Making Contracts Work for Your Business.