The Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji has stated that Nigeria can only derive maximum economic benefits from patents when they are translated into services and products that drive economic growth.
He made this remark during the official presentation of patent certificates to researchers and inventors, facilitated by the National Office for Technology Acquisition and Promotion (NOTAP) in Abuja.
The minister explained that since 2010, NOTAP has secured 340 patents for indigenous inventors and researchers.
“I am reliably informed that from 2010 to date, NOTAP has been able to secure about 340 patent certificates for inventors and researchers from tertiary institutions, research institutes and individuals. Let me also congratulate the recipients of these certificates facilitated by NOTAP,” he said.
He, however, emphasised that obtaining patents is only the first step, as the true economic benefits can only be realised when these innovations are developed into tangible products and services.
“The nation can only derive maximum benefit from your efforts if your patents translate into products and services that contribute to economic growth. Intellectual property in the form of technological innovation has today become the basis of the international power structure. The rapid industrialisation of our country and its economic growth depend largely on the efforts of our researchers,” he added.
In her remarks, the permanent secretary of the ministry, Esuabana Nko-Asanye highlighted the critical role that scientific innovation plays in Nigeria’s economic growth, noting that it has been the foundation of every developed society throughout history.
“The issuance of patent certificates is not just a routine ceremony but a significant moment that underscores the importance of innovation and the protection of intellectual property. It is a demonstration of the government’s commitment to promoting and safeguarding the intellectual contributions of our inventors, whose tireless efforts continue to drive progress in our great nation,” she stated.
She further commended NOTAP’s pivotal role in facilitating technology transfer and ensuring that intellectual property rights are protected.
“The National Office for Technology Acquisition and Promotion (NOTAP) plays a pivotal role in bridging the gap between innovators and industry, facilitating technology transfer and ensuring the protection of intellectual property rights. NOTAP’s efforts have been instrumental in promoting innovation, enabling the commercialisation of inventions and ultimately advancing our country’s technological landscape,” she said.
Speaking earlier, the director-general of NOTAP, Dr. Obiageli Amadiobi reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to advancing technology and innovation in Nigeria.
She noted that since its inception, NOTAP has remained dedicated to this goal and has successfully facilitated the issuance of over 340 patent certificates.
“Our intervention in this space is driven by a clear purpose: to reduce the financial burden on academicians and researchers so they can focus on the essential tasks of research and innovation. We recognise that the process of securing intellectual property rights can be costly and complex, which often poses a significant challenge for many inventors, particularly within the academic community,”* she said.
She further explained that NOTAP supports inventors by assisting in the evaluation and drafting of patent applications, covering patenting fees and guiding innovators through the process, ensuring that researchers can focus on developing solutions that address societal challenges.
The DG celebrated the awardees, describing their creativity, resilience and commitment as shining examples of what is possible when talent meets opportunity.
NOTAP secured a total of 21 patent certificates for some individuals, groups and academia, with a commitment to monitoring and commercialising their innovations to contribute to national economic growth.
Established by the National Office for Technology Acquisition and Promotion Act of 2004, NOTAP supervises and protects the interests of both local and foreign entities engaged in technology acquisition and development.
