Nigerian government elevates intellectual property to boost creative Industry

The Nigerian Government has said it is elevating the country’s Intellectual Property Policy due to the need to empower and protect the country’s cultural heritage and drive innovation across the Country.

The Minister of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa made this known in an engagement with stakeholders alongside the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Doris Uzoka-Anite in Abuja the Nations Capital.
While addressing the stakeholders, Musawa said President Bola Tinubu was keen on attracting investments across the board hence the need for a strong IP policy.

She said “ Let me assure you, that the administration of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, is focused on promoting and attracting investments and partnerships in and to Nigeria and is eager to create the right framework that encourages ease of doing business, serves the public interest and helps us attract investment into the cultural and creative sectors of the economy.
“Together, we can build a framework that not only protects but also nurtures the unique expressions of our people, ensuring they flourish both locally and globally. This forum marks the beginning of a collective journey to establish a vigorous IP policy that reflects the spirit of Nigeria’s ingenuity, creativity, and potential,” she added.

“The protection of intellectual property is essential for empowering our creators, safeguarding our cultural heritage, and driving innovation across every sector.” Minister Musawa said.

Also speaking at the event, the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Doris Uzoka-Anite, emphasised the importance of IP rights in driving innovation and economic growth.

She assured that the draft IP policy would shape the future of intellectual property rights in Nigeria and empower innovators, creators, and entrepreneurs to thrive globally.

“Specifically, intellectual property statutes offer direction about ownership rights to original invention, innovation, or precious work, as well as the financial risks and benefits connected to any technology’s commercialization.” She said.

In a goodwill message, the Director Nigerian Office of the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO), Oluwatobiloba Moody, congratulated the Federal Government for the feat towards protecting ingenuity of Nigerians.

He said WIPO was committed to working with Nigeria towards ensuring that IP rights of creative were adequately protected.