In a significant move to bolster Nigeria’s intellectual property (IP) landscape, the Federal Government has inaugurated an inter-ministerial steering committee to review and refine the nation’s Intellectual Property Policy and Strategy Draft. The committee aims to align the policy with global standards while addressing Nigeria’s specific needs.
The committee, chaired by Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite, the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, includes key figures such as Ms. Hannatu Musa Musawa, the Minister of Art, Culture and the Creative Economy, who serves as co-chairman, and Senator Ben Murray-Bruce, among others. Representatives from various ministries, including Health and Social Welfare, Justice, Aviation, Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Agriculture and Rural Development, Education, Science and Technology, and Information and National Orientation, also contribute to the committee’s diverse expertise.
Dr. Uzoka-Anite underscored the critical role of intellectual property rights in fostering innovation, driving economic growth, and promoting societal progress. “The committee’s task is to ensure that the draft policy and strategy not only adhere to global best practices but also cater to the unique requirements of Nigeria,” she stated. This initiative reflects the government’s recognition of intellectual property as a cornerstone for the nation’s development and international competitiveness.
Co-chairman Ms. Hannatu Musa Musawa emphasized the foundational importance of a robust IP policy for attracting investments. “For us in the Ministry of Art, Culture and the Creative Economy, establishing a comprehensive Regulatory and Legal Framework is paramount, with the Intellectual Property Policy being at the forefront. Without this policy, our efforts are stymied, and attracting investors becomes a challenge as they require legal assurances for their investments,” Ms. Musawa articulated.
Senator Ben Murray-Bruce expressed his gratitude to the ministers for their leadership in this initiative. He highlighted the urgent need for IP protection in Nigeria to safeguard the creative and innovative outputs of its citizens. “This policy is crucial for securing the economic future of Nigeria by protecting the rights of inventors, artists, and entrepreneurs,” he remarked.
The formation of this committee signals the government’s proactive stance in updating and strengthening the country’s intellectual property framework. This move is anticipated to foster a more secure environment for innovation and creativity, encouraging both local and international investment.
The committee has been given a four-week timeline to finalize their review, reflecting the urgency and importance attributed to this endeavor. The outcome is expected to provide a robust, globally competitive IP policy that will support Nigeria’s economic ambitions and its position in the global market.
- Tags: FG, Intellectual Property, Nigeria, Polity, Rights
