Ongoing Data Capture at the Registry for Trademarks, Patents, and Designs
The Nigeria Trademarks, Patents and Designs Registry has completed the first phase of its data capture project which it commenced on 1st October, 2015. This process entailed the digitalization of its trademarks by capturing the data into to the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO), Industrial Property Administration System (IPAS) being used by the Registry. WIPO has given a go ahead for the commencement of the second phase.
WIPO and the Registry officials are providing close guidance and managing the process. The project is currently focused on trademark files and may subsequently extend to Patents and Designs files.
The Data Capture Project will promote easy access to information on trademarks filed in Nigeria and thereby result in efficiency in the trademark registration process.
The Registry is also creating more efficiency in its registration process by clearing the backlog of opposition matters and attending to petitions filed in respect of applications which have been refused. In line with this, the Registry has been issuing hearing notices within short intervals.
It is expected that these changes will encourage more trademark proprietors to protect their brands as several brand owners have been known to abandon their applications in the past due to frustrations from the delays in the registration process.
WIPO to Open African Regional Offices in Nigeria and Algeria
Nigeria and Algeria won the bid to host the African Regional office of the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO).
The elections for the position were held at the WIPO headquarters in Geneva and the results were announced on the 4th of August 2016. Other nations that took part in the bid include Cote d’Ivoire, Egypt, Ethiopia, Kenya and Morocco. The two offices will be established in the 2016/2017 biennium and the process for their establishment has commenced.
