Tag: Doris Uzoka Anite

The Minister, Industry Trade and Investment Doris Uzoka Anite yesterday inaugurated the inter-ministerial committee on the review of the Intellectual Property Policy and Strategy for Nigeria.

In a statement signed by TerfaTilley-Gyado, Special Adviser, Strategic Communications, stated that this inauguration marks a significant step in strengthening Nigeria’s intellectual property framework, it is also to highlight the importance of a robust Intellectual Property  policy in driving innovation and economic growth.

Anite said: “This is to strengthen Nigeria’s intellectual property ecosystem and position our nation as a global leader in the protection and commercialization of creative and innovative works; an effective IP framework to empower our entrepreneurs, inventors, artists, and businesses to reap the full rewards of their creativity and ingenuity.

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“It is therefore imperative that we get this policy right – one that resonates with global best practices, while also addressing the unique needs and aspirations of the Nigerian people. This is where your role as members of this esteemed committee becomes invaluable.”

The Minister, Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy, Barr Hannatu Musa Musawa, who spoke at the event emphasized interconnectedness of intellectual property and the creative industries.

She noted that the arts and culture sector is deeply intertwined with intellectual property. By strengthening the country’s IP framework, ‘we are not only protecting our cultural heritage but also encouraging the creation of new, innovative works that can compete on the global stage’. This initiative will significantly contribute to the growth and sustainability of our creative economy.

Speaking, CEO and Founder of Silverbird Entertainment, Ben Bruce Murray, underscored the importance of intellectual property in the entertainment industry, stating that a strong IP policy is vital for the protection of our creative industries. It ensures that our artists and creators can fully benefit from their hard work and creativity. This policy will help Nigeria become a global powerhouse in entertainment and innovation.

The minister, Industry Trade and Investment, Doris Uzoka Anite said there is need to revitalize the automotive components manufacturing sector in Nigeria, not only for economic growth but also for job creation and technological advancement.

Anite stated this at the meeting of Nigerian automotive component manufacturers in Abuja, noting that the nation has long recognized the importance of a robust automotive industry. Stakeholders including the government must collectively devise the most effective strategies to breathe new life into vehicle components manufacturing within our borders.

According to the minister, “This involves not only identifying the challenges but also leveraging our strengths and resources to overcome them. We must establish strong linkages between suppliers and vehicle manufacturers. Collaboration and cooperation between these stakeholders are essential for ensuring a seamless flow of components and materials, ultimately leading to increased efficiency and competitiveness in the market.

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“We need to identify reliable sources of raw materials and suppliers for our component manufacturers. This entails exploring both domestic and international avenues to secure a steady supply chain that can meet the demands of our growing industry. There is also need to address critical issues if funding, as access to finance is often cited as a major hurdle for businesses in this sector.

The Director General National Automotive Design and Development Council, NADDC, Joseph  Osanipin said NADDC strategic plan is to focus more on component parts to aid the development of the automotive industry and push for the transition of the  country’s assemblers from SKD to CKD auto manufacturers.

Here in Nigeria, NIGERIA Vehicle ownership is 6% of the general population as of 2018 (which is approximately 12m) while in South Africa it is about 17.4%, in other to achieve this and more we need to harness the collective talents and resources at our disposal to drive sustainable growth and development in the sector.