Inauguration of the Inter-Ministerial Committee on the Review of the Intellectual Property Policy and Strategy for Nigeria
Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment
Inauguration of the Inter-Ministerial Committee on the Review of the Intellectual Property Policy and Strategy for Nigeria
Thursday, 30th May 2024
Abuja, Nigeria – The Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment is pleased to announce the inauguration of the Inter-Ministerial Committee on the Review of the Intellectual Property (IP) Policy and Strategy for Nigeria. This significant event took place on Thursday, 30th May 2024, marking a crucial step in strengthening Nigeria’s intellectual property framework.
The Honourable Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite, presided over the ceremony, highlighting the importance of a robust IP policy in driving innovation and economic growth. She stated, “This is a significant milestone in our collective efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s intellectual property ecosystem and position our nation as a global leader in the protection and commercialization of creative and innovative works. An effective IP framework empowers our entrepreneurs, inventors, artists, and businesses to reap the full rewards of their creativity and ingenuity.”
Also co-chairing the event was the Honourable Minister of Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy, Barrister Hannatu Musa Musawa, who emphasized the interconnectedness of intellectual property and the creative industries. She remarked, “The arts and culture sector is deeply intertwined with intellectual property. By strengthening our IP framework, we are not only protecting our cultural heritage but also encouraging the creation of new, innovative works that can compete on the global stage. This initiative will significantly contribute to the growth and sustainability of our creative economy.”
In attendance was Senator Ben Murray Bruce, CEO and Founder of Silverbird Entertainment, who underscored the importance of intellectual property in the entertainment industry. He said, “A strong IP policy is vital for the protection of our creative industries. It ensures that our artists and creators can fully benefit from their hard work and creativity. This policy will help Nigeria become a global powerhouse in entertainment and innovation.”
A Brief on the National IP Policy & Strategy
Nigeria’s draft National IP Policy and Strategy, validated in September 2022, aims to promote a comprehensive and conducive IP ecosystem with a vision to utilize intellectual property for sustainable national prosperity and development.
Key Strategic Objectives:
– Strengthening the legal framework for IP rights protection.
– Enhancing the institutional framework for IP administration and management.
– Promoting the generation and protection of IP rights.
– Facilitating the commercial exploitation of IP assets and technology transfer.
– Strengthening enforcement frameworks for IP rights.
– Developing human resources for IP administration, protection, commercialization, and enforcement.
– Promoting IP training, education, and awareness.
Conclusion
The committee’s task is to update the Draft IP Policy & Strategy for submission to the Federal Executive Council for approval and to review and update national IP legislation in conformity with international obligations. The goal is to give Nigeria’s IP assets a competitive advantage in the market, attract investments, drive industrialization, and generate revenue for the Federal Government.
