The Minister of Innovation Science and Technology, Geoffrey Nnaji, said Nigeria can only derive maximum economic benefits from patents when translated into services for economic growth.
He stated this during his official presentation of patent certificates to researchers and inventors facilitated by the National Office for Technology Acquisition and Promotion (NOTAP) on Monday – today, January 27 – in Abuja, the FCT.
The minister explained that since 2010 till date, 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 of tertiary and research institutes and individuals.
“Let me also congratulate the recipient of these certificates facilitated by NOTAP. I equally wish to emphasise that this is just the first step in reaping the economic benefits of your inventions. The nation can only derive maximum benefit from your efforts, if your patent translates into products/services for economic growth.
“Intellectual property in the form of technological innovation has today become the basis of international power structure. The speedy industrialisation of the country and its economic growth depend largely on the efforts of our researchers.” he emphasised
Speaking earlier, the Director General, National Office for Technology Acquisition and Promotion (NOTAP), Dr. Oby Amadiobi reaffirmed that the agency is committed to technology and innovation advancement in the country
She added that since inception, NOTAP has remained committed to this goal, successfully facilitating 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 recognize that the process of securing intellectual property rights can be costly and complex, and this often poses a significant challenge for many inventors, especially within the academic community.
“So, stepping in to support this process through assisting in evaluation and drafting of patent applications, payment of necessary patenting fees, NOTAP ensures that our researchers can channel their energy and resources into creating solutions that address societal challenges and contribute to national development,” she enthused.
The DG celebrated the awardees, saying their creativity, resilience and commitment are shining examples of what is possible when talent meets opportunity.
NOTAP secured a total of 21 patent certificates for some individuals, groups and the academia, which they have promised to monitor and commercialise their products or services to improve the nation’s economy.
One of the recipients, the founder of Horizon International University, Efon Alaaye, Ekiti State. Prof. Ajibade Abiodun who spoke, said they “patent owners” need protection because their inventions and innovations will not be welcomed by market forces.
