The Nigerian government has presented 41 patent certificates to Nigerian inventors and innovators.
The Minister of Science and Technology, Dr Ogbonnaya Onu, made the presentation in Abuja.
Dr. Onu noted that a favourable legal framework is necessary for the management, protection and enforcement of intellectual property rights.
According to him, the present administration has realised the importance of intellectual property as vital tool and an economic asset needed to invigorate the Nigerian economy to make it competitive.
“This can be achieved through creativity, inventiveness and innovation.
“It is of note that National Office for Technology Acquisition and Promotion (NOTAP) has established 43 Intellectual Property and Technology Transfer Offices (IPTTO) in public and private tertiary institutions and research institutes in the country.
“It has facilitated the grant of 50 patent certificates in 2017 and 54 patent certificates so far in 2018. Out of these, 41 will be presented today. Also, NOTAP is hoping to have more patent certificates before the end of the year.”
The minister maintained that the country could benefit maximally from the Research and Development efforts if converted into products
or services.
“I employ you all to work closely with NOTAP in this regard to realise the aim of this programme for the benefit of the entire nation,” he added.
The Director-General of NOTAP, Dr Mohammed Ibrahim, stressed the need for synergy among stakeholders to generate more wealth, stimulate inclusive growth in the economy, as well as reduce unemployment and poverty in the country.