Stakeholders in Nigeria’s intellectual property (IP) subsector have advocated for a collaborative, multi-stakeholder approach to address challenges facing IP in the country, while urging increased awareness and education on IP rights.
The call was made on Monday in Abuja during a report validation workshop organised by the International Center for Regional Integration & Trade Research (ICRITR) and Africa International Trade & Commerce Research (AITCR). The event focused on validating findings from a study titled: “Stakeholder Perception of Intellectual Property in Nigeria: Mapping Awareness, Attitudes, and Policy Implications.”
Prof. Ngozi Egbuna, Director of ICRITR, said the workshop was crucial to ensure the report accurately informs national policy and supports Nigeria’s innovation ecosystem. She urged stakeholders to explore blockchain and other digital tools to enhance transparency, reduce bureaucracy, and combat counterfeiting.
“There is a need to strengthen enforcement of IP laws, develop policies that promote innovation, and foster collaboration among government, industry, and academia. Nigeria must create an environment that fosters creativity and economic growth,” Egbuna said. She added that a balance must be struck between protecting IP and ensuring access to knowledge, technology, and innovation.
Sand Mba-Kalu, Executive Director of AITCR, highlighted the limited awareness of IP rights among stakeholders and inadequate enforcement of IP laws. “Intellectual property is a key driver of economic growth and development. By working together, Nigeria can create an environment that promotes innovation, creativity, and growth,” he said.
Mr. Enoch Moghalu, Deputy Director of Technology Acquisition and Research Coordination (TARC) at the National Office for Technology Acquisition and Promotion (NOTAP), commended the study for mapping IP awareness and attitudes. He emphasised the importance of strengthening policy frameworks to foster innovation and protect IP rights, noting NOTAP’s role in monitoring and regulating the transfer and acquisition of foreign technology.
The workshop concluded with a call for increased education, training, and collaboration among all IP stakeholders to ensure Nigeria’s creative and technological industries thrive.