In furtherance of our objectives, we continue to advocate for the strengthening of the intellectual property laws and institutions in Nigeria. This includes reviewing draft bills that touch on intellectual property, monitoring legislative processes, actively participating in public hearings, engaging with members of the National Assembly and all relevant stakeholders, frequent meetings with the leadership of the relevant Ministries, Departments and Agencies in Nigeria to discuss key issues arising in the administration of intellectual property rights, and participating in seminars, workshops and discussions on intellectual property matters.
Comments on the Bill for an Act to Establish the Industrial Property Commission
Between the 3 July and 5 July, 2016, a committee comprising of our members, the academia and the leadership of the Trademark Registry conducted a critical review of the Bill, viz a viz applicable model laws and international best practices. At the conclusion of the review, a detailed report was prepared and forwarded to the 8th National Assembly for its review and implementation. For information on the comments on the Bill please click here.
Comments on the Bill for an Act to repeal the Trade Marks Act CAP T13 Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004, and enact a new Trade Marks Act to provide for a comprehensive law on trademarks and related matters
On the 28 March 2018, IPLAN participated in the public hearing of the Bill at the National Assembly. After the public hearing, a detailed submission on the various provisions contained in the Bill and their implications for the administration of intellectual property rights was submitted at the National Assembly. For information on our comments on the Bill please click here.
Publication of Journals and Issues Arising
On 20 March 2018, IPLAN advised the Registrar of Trademarks on the effective date of trademark journals and the challenges arising in the conduct of opposition proceedings. To view our comments, please click here.