An Assessment of Intellectual Property Rights in Nigeria Agriculture

Despite the important role of Intellectual Property Right (IPR) as an incentive for promoting the development, dissemination and commercialization of technologies, and the supposed large volume of technological advancements in Nigeria Agricultural Research System; IPR has not been fully utilised for the greatest benefit of Nigeria as in some other developing countries.  This study aimed at evaluating the existing gaps in knowledge, attitude and practice about IPR among researchers in the National Agricultural Research Institutes of Nigeria. Results showed good knowledge level on the concept of IPR, with an average score above 75%. Also, 84% of researchers knew with certainty the meaning of the concept, and the types of IP rights including copyright, trademarks, patents, and industrial design rights.  Generally low knowledge (52%) was recorded about procedure for filling application for IPR; including the procedure for filling application for trademarks (0%), copyrights (6.7%), farmers’ rights (13%), and patents and breeders’ right (20%). About 67% of researchers expressed negative attitude about the procedure for application for IPR; that procedure was cumbersome (6.67%), not clearly understood (33.33%), and too lengthy (20%). Moreover, none of the respondents have been involved in filling application for any of the different forms of IPR. It was concluded that knowledge gap on agricultural IPR exist and could contribute to the weak IPR system in Nigeria. A more efficient IPR system could be achieved for the Nigeria agriculture subject to enhanced knowledge of agricultural researchers about procedure for harnessing IPR, capacity of agencies to deliver IPR, and a review of the legal framework for protecting IPR.