By Joy Baba-Yesufu
The Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Investment, in collaboration with the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), has successfully implemented a strategic capacity-building program aimed at boosting the competitiveness of Nigerian Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) through intellectual property (IP) and branding strategies.
The initiative, which culminated in a well-attended conference, focused on innovation, technology adoption, and strategic partnerships as key drivers of Nigeria’s economic growth.
Director of the Trademarks Registry, barrister Adamu Yauri, who represented the Honourable Minister of Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole at the occasion reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to empowering SMEs through intellectual property rights, branding, and commercialization strategies.
He praised WIPO’s unwavering support, particularly through the WIPO Build Back Fund, a post-COVID-19 initiative assisting member countries in economic recovery. “These SMEs will serve as a reference point for others, and the success of this program will strengthen our case for expanded future collaborations with WIPO,” Yauri stated.
To ensure sustainable impact, the Ministry called on government agencies such as SMEDAN, NEPC, and NIPC to provide funding and resources for trained SMEs, helping them scale and compete globally.
Key Highlights of the Conference
Empowering SMEs through Mentorship & Learning
The Abuja Enterprise Agency (AEA) reaffirmed its dedication to training and mentoring entrepreneurs through the newly established Abuja Business School of Entrepreneurship.
Harnessing the Creative Economy
The Abuja Talent Academy was announced to support creatives and artists, acknowledging the resilience of the creative sector during economic downturns.
Strengthening Nigeria’s Economic Future
The conference ended with a renewed commitment to fostering innovation, leveraging technology, and strengthening partnerships in line with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 9 & 17
Also speaking at the event, Mr. Oluwatobiloba Moody, Director, WIPO Nigeria Office, emphasized the need for SMEs to view trademarks as valuable commercial assets rather than just marketing tools. “Trademarks themselves hold monetary value and can be commercialized separately,” he advised.
The Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Amb. Nura Abba Rimi, represented by Mr. Dafang Sule, Director of Federal Produce Service and Inspection, commended WIPO’s efforts and urged participants to apply their newly acquired knowledge in their businesses.
Other speakers echoed similar sentiments, stressing the importance of IP in building sustainable businesses and strengthening Nigeria’s global competitiveness.
Never miss a moment! Get the stories shaping Nigeria, delivered straight to your phone. Follow Peoplesdaily Newspaper on WhatsApp for breaking news, exclusive reports, and the headlines everyone will be talking about, before anyone else.
