The Federal Government has disclosed plans to use intellectual property (IP) to boost innovation, create jobs, and grow Nigeria’s economy beyond oil.
The Honourable Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Dr. Kingsley Tochukwu Udeh, SAN, made this known in Abuja while receiving a delegation from the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) led by its Director, Mr. Oluwatobi Moody.
According to the minister, intellectual property will play a key role in helping Nigeria diversify its economy by supporting inventors, protecting creative ideas, and encouraging the commercial use of new technologies.
Dr. Udeh explained that intellectual property rights give innovators the legal protection needed to develop and profit from their inventions.
“Intellectual property rights protect creative ideas and enable innovators to commercially exploit their inventions,” he said.
He added that stronger collaboration between Nigeria and WIPO will help deepen innovation and technology development across different sectors of the economy.
The minister also stressed that the government is focusing on turning research outputs from Nigerian institutions into marketable products and services that can drive economic growth.
According to him, “translating research into marketable products will enhance job creation and reduce poverty.”
Dr. Udeh noted that the Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology remains the government’s lead institution responsible for promoting scientific research, technological advancement and innovation-driven policies.
Speaking earlier, Mr. Oluwatobi Moody said WIPO’s visit was aimed at strengthening cooperation with Nigeria to support innovators and expand the use of intellectual property for national development.
He also praised the ministry’s renewed focus on research commercialization and innovation-led growth.
