ABUJA, Nigeria — Nigeria has called for a more inclusive and development-oriented global intellectual property system, urging stronger international cooperation to advance innovation, technology transfer and economic growth.
The Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, made the call at the 68th Assemblies of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) in Geneva, where she represented Nigeria. The development was contained in a statement issued by Obilor-Duru Augustina Okechi, Head of Press and Public Relations at the ministry.
Oduwole said intellectual property should serve as a tool for inclusion, enabling creators, entrepreneurs and businesses—particularly in developing economies—to fully benefit from their innovations.
“Intellectual property must be a living instrument of inclusion that empowers creators, innovators and businesses,” she said.
She noted that although Nigeria’s creative and innovation sectors, including music, Nollywood, fashion, food, science and technology, have gained international recognition, the economic returns remain below their full potential.
The minister highlighted ongoing reforms by the Federal Government, including the implementation of the National Intellectual Property Policy and Strategy (2025), aimed at strengthening protection, improving commercialization and enhancing institutional coordination.
She also underscored Nigeria’s expanding collaboration with WIPO, acknowledging the organisation’s technical support and recent high-level engagements designed to deepen cooperation.
Oduwole announced efforts to broaden access to intellectual property services through a partnership between the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) and the WIPO Nigeria Office, targeting micro, small and medium enterprises.
She linked intellectual property to Africa’s broader economic integration under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), noting that effective IP systems are essential for industrialisation, digital trade and sustainable development.
“As the WIPO Development Agenda approaches its twentieth anniversary, there is a need to fully integrate development considerations into all aspects of global IP governance,” she added.
Reaffirming Nigeria’s position, the minister said the country remains committed to building a balanced, inclusive and future-ready intellectual property ecosystem that supports economic transformation.
