The Vice-Chancellor, Igbinedion University, Okada, Prof. Lawrence Ezemonye, has emphasised the need for the government to strengthen policies that support research, intellectual property, and education to accelerate national development and progress.

Ezemonye noted that globally, intellectual property is known to boost economic activities by attracting local and foreign investments, supporting start-ups, and enhancing the country’s ability to compete in global markets.

Speaking at a roundtable discussion organised by Igbinedion University Intellectual Property and Technology Transfer Office (IPTTO) and themed: “The role of intellectual property in supporting Nigeria’s development goals,” Ezemonye harped on the importance of innovation and creativity in an economy, noting that innovation and creativity are essential drivers of national development, which helps in shaping economies, industries, and societies.

He noted that intellectual property exists to recognise and protect creators and innovators by clothing them with rights over their inventions and to foster progress in technology, literature, and business.

“There is no doubt that Nigeria, with its vibrant entrepreneurial spirit and creative industries, has immense potential to harness innovation for sustainable development,” Ezemonye said.

He added that intellectual property supports technological advancement through patents and trademarks, which encourage research and development, leading to breakthroughs in sectors like agriculture, healthcare, and technology.