By Miriam Humbe
The Federal Government of Nigeria is reaffirming its commitment to protecting intellectual property rights with the revalidation of the National Intellectual Property Policy and Strategy Paper.
The initiative, spearheaded by the Federal Ministries of Industry, Trade and Investment, (FMITI) Culture and Creative Economy, in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Justice and Health and Social Welfare, aims to produce a comprehensive policy document that will safeguard the intellectual assets of Nigerians.
Adebayo Thomas, the Director of Press and Public Relations, FMITI disclosed this in a statement signed on Monday.
Humsimedia Online gathered that the new policy document is expected to be launched in the third week of October
Dr. Doris Azuka-Anite, Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, emphasized the importance of this revalidation during her opening remarks at a one-day workshop.
Azuka-Anite said: “Although the document was finalized in 2022, revalidation is necessary to address grey areas and incorporate emerging trends in property rights, aligning with global best practices.
“Having an intellectual property policy is crucial for Nigeria’s economic growth and development. It provides direction on ownership rights to original inventions, innovations, and creative works, mitigating financial risks and maximizing the benefits of commercialization.”
Minister assured that the current administration under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was dedicated to upholding the intellectual property rights of Nigerians.
Hanatu Musawana, Minister of Culture and Creative Economy, highlighted the timeliness of the revalidation and the subsequent launch of the new policy.
She said: “Nigeria is globally recognized for its intellectual prowess across various fields. It is imperative to establish a solid national intellectual property policy to protect our innovations.
“From new medicines and seeds to industrial processes, music compositions, and literary works, these pillars of society enrich our existence. Our culture, traditions, food, and produce need protection and marketing, which requires robust policy support.”
Ambassador Nura Rimi, Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, praised the stakeholders for their dedication to developing a revitalized policy framework.
Rimi said: “This innovative policy will address issues of piracy and intellectual property theft. It is essential for Nigeria to have a comprehensive and effective policy to protect and promote our intellectual assets”.
The workshop aimed to validate the review conducted by inter-ministerial committees established by the Ministers of Industry, Trade and Investment, and Culture and Creative Economy.
The final document will be presented to the Federal Executive Council for approval.
Development partners at the workshop’s opening session unanimously agreed that Nigeria, as a key global player known for its talent, requires a formidable intellectual property protection policy that stands the test of time.
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