The National Office for Technology Acquisition and Promotion (NOTAP) has clarified that inventors and creators of intellectual property can only hold exclusive rights to their works for 20 years, after which their inventions enter the public domain and can be used by anyone.
This announcement was made by NOTAP’s Director-General, Obiageli Amadiobi, during a press conference on Thursday in Abuja, in celebration of the African Day for Technology and Intellectual Properties. Themed *”Leveraging Technology and IPRs to Drive the Renewed Hope Agenda,”* the event emphasized the role of intellectual property rights in fostering innovation and development.
Amadiobi noted that the 20-year exclusivity period applies specifically to patents, which protect the creative works and inventions of individuals. She explained, “After 20 years, the rights to an invention expire, and it becomes available for public use without requiring the creator’s permission.”
This clarification comes amidst growing discussions about intellectual property ownership, especially within the music industry, where controversies over song rights have sparked debates on the importance of obtaining permission from original creators.
The African Day for Technology and Intellectual Property Rights was established following a resolution by the Organisation of African Unity (now the African Union) in 1999, aiming to promote awareness and strengthen the intellectual property rights system across African member states.
Amadiobi highlighted that technology and intellectual property are critical to nation-building and wealth creation. Intellectual property rights not only encourage creativity but also drive the development of solutions to many of the challenges facing Africa, including poverty eradication and sustainable development.
She stressed the importance of inspiring young African inventors and innovators, adding that fostering indigenous solutions through intellectual property rights could significantly contribute to the continent’s economic growth and development.
As knowledge becomes increasingly central to global trade and growth, Amadiobi commended African leaders for recognizing the importance of technology and intellectual property rights in driving sustainable progress.
