NOTAP issues 340 patent certificates to inventors – Minister

Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation, Uche Nnaji, said that 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.

The minister disclosed this on Monday during the presentation of patent certificates to 18 innovators in Abuja, noting that 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, stressing that the speedy industrialization of the country and its economic growth depend largely on the efforts of the nation’s researchers.

According to him, 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 added.

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

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

She, explained 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,” she said.

The NOTAP DG pointed out 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 emphasized.