FG INAUGURATES STEERING COMMITTEE FOR REVIEW OF INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY POLICY AND STRATEGY DRAFT 31-05-24
By Sadiq Aminu Some members of the committee includes the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite who is the chairman, the minister of Art, Culture and creative economy, Ms Hannatu Musa Musawa as co-chairman and former senator Ben Murray – Bruce as member.
The Chairman of the Steering committee, Dr. Doris Uzoka -Anite said the committee’s task was to review the draft policy and strategy, ensuring it aligns with global best practices and addresses Nigeria’s unique needs.
Dr Uzoka -Anite who emphasized the importance of intellectual property rights in driving innovation, economic growth, and societal progress charged the members to be dilligent in other to shape the future of intellectual property rights in Nigeria and empower innovators, creators, and entrepreneurs to thrive globally.
“It is therefore imperative that we get this policy right – one that resonates with global best practices, while also addressing the unique needs and aspirations of the Nigerian people. This is where your role as members of this esteemed committee becomes invaluable.
In her response, the co-chairman and Minister of Art, Culture and the Creative Economy Ms Hannatu Musa Musawa said the Intellectual Property Policy and Strategy Document was not only foundational but essential to bringing in investors to the country.
“One of the very important things for us in the Ministry of Art, Culture and the Creative Economy is to put in place a Regulatory and Legal Framework of which the Intellectual Property Policy is topmost. Without this policy in place, we cannot do anything. It will also be difficult for investors to come as the IP policy will give legal backing to their investments.
Senator Ben Murray – Bruce thanked the ministers for the initiative, stating that Nigeria was in dire need of IP protection.
Other committee members were selected from the Ministries of Health and Social Welfare, Justice, Aviation, Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Agriculture and Rural Development, Education, Science and Technology, Information and National Orientation.
The inter-ministerial committee is expected to join conclude the review in 4 weeks.