Nigerian Government Launches Committee to Revise Intellectual Property Policy

A committee composed of representatives from various ministries was inaugurated in Abuja on Thursday to review the draft of Nigeria’s Intellectual Property Policy and Strategy.

At the inauguration ceremony held at the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, the Minister, Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite, stated that the committee’s task is to review the draft policy and strategy, ensuring it aligns with global best practices and addresses Nigeria’s unique needs.

Dr. Uzoka-Anite, who will also chair the inter-ministerial committee, emphasized the crucial role of intellectual property rights in fostering innovation, economic growth, and societal progress.

The Minister charged the members to be diligent in order to shape the future of intellectual property rights in Nigeria and empower innovators, creators, and entrepreneurs to thrive globally.

She said “The development of a robust and forward-looking IP policy and strategy is a key priority for our government. In today’s knowledge-driven global economy, intellectual property rights are crucial drivers of innovation, economic growth, and societal progress. An effective IP framework empowers our entrepreneurs, inventors, artists, and businesses to reap the full rewards of their creativity and ingenuity.

“It is therefore imperative that we get this policy right – one that resonates with global best practices, while also addressing the unique needs and aspirations of the Nigerian people. This is where your role as members of this esteemed committee becomes invaluable. She added

“I have carefully selected each of you to serve on this committee based on your distinguished track records, specialized expertise, and proven commitment to the advancement of intellectual property rights in Nigeria. Your diverse backgrounds will bring a rich tapestry of perspectives to the table”.

In her response, the Minister of Arts, Culture and the Creative Economy Hannatu Musawa who is the Co-Chairman of the committee said that the Intellectual Property Policy and Strategy Document was not only foundational but essential to bringing investors to the country.

She said “One of the very important things for us in the Ministry of Art, Culture and the Creative Economy is to put in place a Regulatory and Legal Framework of which the Intellectual Property Policy is topmost. Without this policy in place, we cannot do anything. It will also be difficult for investors to come as the IP policy will give legal backing to their investments.

“One of the things we are committed to is growing the nation’s GDP by $100b by 2030. We cannot do anything without the Intellectual Property Policy, so putting in place a regulatory and legal framework is essential to bringing value back home”. She added

A member of the committee and former Member of the Senate of Nigeria Honorable Ben Murray – Bruce thanked the ministers for the initiative, stating that Nigeria is in dire need of IP protection.

“Artists make all their money outside the country but not back home so how do you turn creativity into cash? Intellectual Property Protection is the greatest gift that you can give to the country. It will work for medicine, for science, for the creative industry and you can’t imagine what Nigeria will be, five years from now”. Minister Musawa said

The committee members were selected from the Ministries of Health and Social Welfare, Justice, Aviation, Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Agriculture and Rural Development, Education, Science and Technology, Information and National Orientation, Trade, Industry and Investment and Art, Culture and Creative Economy,

Members are charged with conducting a comprehensive and consultative review, engaging with stakeholders, and providing recommendations for strengthening the policy framework.

The inter-ministerial committee is expected to conclude the review in 4 weeks.