The National Office for Technology Acquisition and Promotion (NOTAP), since its establishment, has successfully facilitated the issuance of over 340 patent certificates to researchers and institutions, Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation, Uche Nnaji, has said.

The minister disclosed this on Monday during the presentation of patent certificates to 18 innovators in Abuja.

Nnaji said the patent would encourage inventors and spur innovative activities.

He described intellectual property in the form of technological innovation as the basis of the international power structure.

The minister observed that the speedy industrialization of the country and its economic growth depend largely on the efforts of the nation’s researchers.

He said the event demonstrated the willingness of the federal government to assist researchers/inventors in protecting their Research and Development (R&D) results for their economic benefits and that of the nation at large.

“I am reliably informed that from 2010 to date, NOTAP has been able to secure about 340 patent certificates for inventors and researchers of tertiary and research institutes and individuals.

“This number includes the 18 certificates to be presented today. Let me use this opportunity to extend my appreciation to the Patent and Design Registry of the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Investment (FMITI), Abuja, for the synergy and cooperation with NOTAP towards the actualization of NOTAP assistance for patent registration researchers/inventors in Nigeria,” the minister stated.

NOTAP Director General, Obiageli Amadiobi, highlighted the pivotal role of intellectual property in driving national development.

Stressing that patents are vital tools in the journey of innovation, she said documents protect the rights of inventors, encourage further creativity, and foster a culture of technology-driven solutions.

She, however, noted that innovation does not end with securing a patent, adding that it is merely the first step in a larger process that requires sustained support, collaboration, and commercialisation.

“This is where NOTAP stands as a committed partner—bridging the gap between inventors, industries, and the global marketplace. Since its inception, NOTAP has remained committed to this goal, and I am proud to share that we have successfully facilitated the issuance of over 340 patent certificates,” the NOTAP DG stated.

Amadiobi observed that the agency’s intervention is driven by a clear purpose to reduce the financial burden on academicians and researchers so they can focus on the essential tasks of research and innovation.

“We recognize that the process of securing intellectual property rights can be costly and complex, and this often poses a significant challenge for many inventors, especially within the academic community.

“By stepping in to support this process through assisting in the evaluation and drafting of patent applications, payment of necessary patenting fees, NOTAP ensures that our researchers can channel their energy and resources into creating solutions that address societal challenges and contribute to national development,” she added.

She stressed that the role of the agency is simply complementary, not a substitution for the critical functions of the Patent Registry under the Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Investment.

Amadiobi said: “NOTAP is not here to usurp those responsibilities but rather to facilitate and promote the process of securing intellectual property rights, through awareness creation on intellectual property matters and related issues, capacity building for researchers in intellectual property, and the establishment of intellectual property technology transfer offices in our tertiary institutions, research institutes, and teaching hospitals.

“All with a view to ensuring that our innovators are equipped to protect and commercialize their groundbreaking ideas effectively.

“To the remarkable individuals receiving patents today, I extend my heartfelt congratulations. Your creativity, resilience, and commitment are shining examples of what is possible when talent meets opportunity. Let this moment inspire you to take your innovations to greater heights, knowing that NOTAP remains steadfast in its support of your endeavors.”