Virtual Workshop for Nigerian Judiciary Focuses on IP Enforcement

INTA recently hosted a virtual Intellectual Property Workshop for Judges of the Federal High Court and Court of Appeal in Nigeria. The purpose of event was to enhance the participants’ knowledge on intellectual property (IP) rights as well as provide them with an in-depth understanding of IP enforcement. It was attended by a significant number of judges and justices from both divisions.

Key topics covered during the workshop included an overview of IP rights, the trademark prosecution process and standards of examination in Nigeria, the procedure of appeals from the Trademark Tribunal, cancellation and rectification actions, Anton Piller orders and ex parte preservatory orders, well-known trademarks, cross-border IP enforcement, and the role of the judiciary in combating Internet-based IP infringements, particularly through dynamic blocking injunctions, which are now becoming a reality.

The program was facilitated by Academic Committee member Professor Bankole Sodipo (Babcock University, Nigeria), Dr. Shafiu Adamu Yauri (Registrar of Trademarks, Nigeria), Justice Nnamdi Dimgba (Court of Appeal of Nigeria), Enforcement Committee member Amala Umeike (Stren & Blan Partners, Nigeria), INTA member Mark Mordi, Senior Advocate of Nigeria (Aluko & Oyebode, Nigeria), and Anticounterfeiting Committee member Dr. Nicolás Schmitz (Grunecker Patent Attorneys & Attorneys at Law, Germany). They emphasized the importance of continuous education and training for judges as a way to equip themselves with the necessary insights into handling IP matters, which are becoming increasingly complex in the Digital Age. The judges expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the local and international frameworks concerning IP law and the technology trends that continue to impact this space.

This workshop underscores INTA’s commitment to strengthening the judiciary’s capacity to effectively handle IP cases and make well-informed and balanced decisions. IP enforcement remains vital in contributing to innovation, economic development, and fair competition in Sub-Saharan Africa.

INTA Consultant Hazel Okoth supports the Association’s members across Africa in collaboration with the staff at INTA’s headquarters in New York City and Representative Offices around the world. Ms. Okoth works on the Association’s policy, membership, marketing, and communications initiatives in Africa. Please contact Ms. Okoth to learn more about INTA’s activities in Africa.

Although every effort has been made to verify the accuracy of this article, readers are urged to check independently on matters of specific concern or interest.

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