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By Folarinwa Aluko
Intellectual property knowledge (IP) is a vital resource that every Nigerian should have access to, not a tool reserved for a privileged few. Knowledge is power, and IP knowledge can empower individuals and communities to innovate, protect their creations, and contribute to national growth. However, a narrow, exclusionary approach to IP has limited its reach, stifled innovation, and left millions unaware of how robust IP protections can transform their lives.
IP and Innovation policies should reflect the diverse voices of Nigerians— creatives, entrepreneurs, academics, and the public—not just a small group of specialists. Until we democratize the conversation around our IP and Innovation Policies, Nigeria will continue to lag behind in the global knowledge economy. National policies shape the roadmap for our shared future, and broad participation is critical for crafting policies that address the realities of a fast-evolving digital age.
Imagine a rural artisan who learns to protect their designs through IP education or a young coder whose software idea is nurtured under robust policies. These are the stories that can define Nigeria’s future.
To build a sustainable future, we must open up the policy development conversation to all Nigerians. In this respect, IP is not much different from oil—another national resource that has been mismanaged for decades. Nigeria cannot afford to take the same approach with IP. We must learn from the mistakes of the past and design a model that is inclusive, transparent, and forward-looking.
To build a sustainable future, we must open up the policy development conversation to all Nigerians. In this respect, IP is not much different from oil—another national resource that has been mismanaged for decades. Nigeria cannot afford to take the same approach with IP. We must learn from the mistakes of the past and design a model that is inclusive, transparent, and forward-looking.
The truth is that many of those who currently propose solutions to our national challenges are out of touch with realities on the ground. They operate within outdated frameworks, failing to address the complexities of the digital age—streaming, licensing, software patents, and the like. This approach stunts innovation and robs millions of Nigerians of the opportunity to fully understand and leverage IP.
This issue is particularly urgent because the world is rapidly moving toward a knowledge-based economy. IP is the currency of this new era. Countries that prioritize innovation, protect intellectual property, and encourage creativity will lead the way. Unfortunately, Nigeria is lagging behind. Despite our vibrant film industry, Nollywood, and our growing tech sector, we continue to lose billions of naira annually to piracy and IP-related inefficiencies—money that could fund education, healthcare, or infrastructure.
According to a recent report by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), Africa accounts for just 1.1% of global patent applications. Nigeria, with its immense creative and intellectual potential, is barely a blip on the radar.
There is still hope, Nigeria is home to remarkable creative and intellectual peoples. Nollywood continues to thrive despite losing billions annually to piracy. Nigeria’s music industry continues to garner global attention, demonstrating how intellectual property can generate economic value when properly managed. Our Content Creators are breaking barriers on regional and international stages, showcasing the potential of exporting Nigerian Culture as IP.
Let me be clear: IP is not a magic wand that instantly generates wealth. It requires infrastructure, enforcement, and, most importantly, education. Nigerians need to understand what IP is and how it can be used to protect their ideas and creations. Only then can we begin to unlock the full potential of IP as a driver of economic growth.
With the talent of our people and the strength of our industries, Nigeria can take its rightful place in the global knowledge economy. But we must act now—together.
Folarinwa M. Aluko is a Legal Practitioner and Partner in the Law Firm of Trumann Rockwood Solicitors. He can be reached at fmaluko@trumann-rockwood.com
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