Nigeria set to launch comprehensive intellectual property policy to protect innovations

The Federal Government of Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding intellectual property rights by revalidating the National Intellectual Property Policy and Strategy Paper.

This initiative, led by the Federal Ministries of Industry, Trade and Investment, Culture and Creative Economy, and in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Justice and Health and Social Welfare, aims to develop a robust policy document that will protect the intellectual assets of Nigerians.

Adebayo Thomas, Director of Press and Public Relations at the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, stated that during a recent one-day workshop, Minister Doris Anite emphasised the need for revalidation to address grey areas and incorporate emerging trends in property rights, ensuring alignment with global best practices.

Anite further noted that although the document was finalized in 2022, establishing a comprehensive intellectual property policy is essential for Nigeria’s economic growth and development.

“It provides direction on ownership rights to original inventions, innovations, and creative works, mitigating financial risks and maximizing the benefits of commercialization”, the Minister said.

Minister Anite emphasised the commitment of President Bola Tinubu’s administration to safeguarding the intellectual property rights of Nigerians.

Additionally, Hanatu Musawana, the Minister of Culture and Creative Economy, underscored the importance of the revalidation process and the timely introduction of the new policy.

“Nigeria is globally recognised for its intellectual prowess across various fields. It is imperative to establish a solid national intellectual property policy to protect our innovations.

“From new medicines and seeds to industrial processes, music compositions, and literary works, these pillars of society enrich our existence. Our culture, traditions, food, and produce need protection and marketing, which requires robust policy support.”

Ambassador Nura Rimi, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Investment, commended the stakeholders for their commitment to creating a renewed policy framework.

“This innovative policy will address issues of piracy and intellectual property theft. It is essential for Nigeria to have a comprehensive and effective policy to protect and promote our intellectual assets,” he noted.

The workshop is designed to validate the review carried out by inter-ministerial committees formed by the Ministers of Industry, Trade and Investment, as well as Culture and Creative Economy.

Once finalised, the document will be submitted to the Federal Executive Council for approval.

During the opening session of the workshop, development partners expressed unanimous agreement on the need for Nigeria—recognised as a prominent global player known for its talent—to establish a robust intellectual property protection policy that is both effective and enduring.

The launch of the new policy document is anticipated in the third week of October.