Easiest Way To Do Patent Right Registration In Nigeria From The Comfort Of Your Home

Patent registration in Nigeria is a critical step for inventors and businesses looking to protect their innovations. With advancements in digital infrastructure, the process has become more accessible, allowing you to register your patent right from the comfort of your home. This blog post outlines the easiest way to complete patent registration in Nigeria, using the latest online tools and resources available.

Understanding Patent Rights in Nigeria

Before diving into the registration process, it’s important to understand what a patent is and why it’s crucial. A patent grants the inventor exclusive rights to their invention, preventing others from making, using, or selling the invention without permission. In Nigeria, the Patents and Designs Act governs patent rights, and the Patents Registry, under the Trademarks, Patents, and Designs Registry (TPDR) of the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Investment, administers the registration process.

Step 1: Determine Patentability

Not every idea qualifies for a patent. In Nigeria, an invention must meet certain criteria to be eligible for a patent:

• Novelty: The invention must be new, meaning it has not been disclosed to the public in any form, anywhere in the world.
• Inventive Step: The invention must involve an inventive step that is not obvious to someone with knowledge and experience in the subject matter.
• Industrial Applicability: The invention must be capable of being used in some kind of industry.

It’s advisable to conduct a patent search to ensure that your invention is indeed novel. This can be done through the TPDR's database or international patent databases like WIPO's PATENTSCOPE.

Step 2: Prepare Your Patent Application

Once you’ve determined that your invention is patentable, the next step is to prepare your patent application. A complete application typically includes:

• Specification: This is a detailed description of the invention, explaining how it works and its industrial applicability.
• Claims: These define the scope of protection sought by the inventor.
• Abstract: A brief summary of the invention.
• Drawings: If applicable, technical drawings that illustrate the invention.

Drafting a patent application can be complex, so it’s often recommended to seek the assistance of a registered patent attorney or agent who is familiar with the legal and technical requirements.

Step 3: Create an Account on the TPDR Online Portal

The Nigerian government has simplified the patent registration process by allowing inventors to submit their applications online. Start by creating an account on the TPDR online portal. The registration process is straightforward and requires basic personal information.

Step 4: Fill Out the Application Form

After creating your account, log in to the TPDR portal and fill out the online patent application form. This form will ask for details about the inventor, the invention, and any prior applications (if applicable). Ensure that all information is accurate and complete, as errors can delay the registration process.

Step 5: Submit Your Documents and Pay the Fees

Once the application form is completed, you’ll need to upload all the necessary documents, including the specification, claims, abstract, and any drawings. The TPDR portal accepts various file formats, but ensure your documents are in the correct format as specified on the website.

After uploading your documents, you’ll be required to pay the registration fees. The fees vary depending on the type of patent and whether you’re filing as an individual or a corporate entity. Payment can be made online via the portal using a debit card or bank transfer.

Step 6: Track Your Application

After submitting your application and payment, you can track the status of your application through the TPDR portal. The review process may take several months, during which the registry will examine the application to ensure that all criteria are met. If the application is successful, a patent certificate will be issued, granting you exclusive rights to your invention for 20 years, subject to annual renewal fees.

Conclusion

Registering a patent in Nigeria has never been easier, thanks to the availability of online tools provided by the TPDR. By following these steps, you can protect your invention from unauthorized use and enjoy the commercial benefits that come with it. Whether you’re an individual inventor or a corporate entity, securing your intellectual property rights is a crucial step in ensuring the success and longevity of your innovation.