The Launch of WIPO IP Labs and IP for Green Innovation Projects in Partnership with The Nest

Imagine you have an idea that could change the world — a solution to reduce waste, a new way to harness renewable energy, or even a technology that could transform an entire industry. But without the right tools and support, that idea might never make it past the drawing board. This is the reality for countless Nigerian innovators who struggle to protect and scale their ideas in a competitive market.

That’s where intellectual property (IP) comes in, serving as a crucial safeguard for innovations and an enabler of growth. Recognizing this, The Nest Innovation Technology Park Limited, recently partnered with the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) to host the official launch of the WIPO IP Labs and IP for Green Innovation Projects. This event wasn’t just another item on the calendar — it was a clarion call to all creators, entrepreneurs, and innovators to step up, protect their ideas, and bring them to life in a way that can make a lasting impact.

From students and startup founders to dignitaries from government and private sectors, the gathering was a fusion of passion and expertise, all united by a shared belief: that the future belongs to those who dare to innovate, and IP is the key to turning those daring ideas into reality.

The event kicked off with welcome remarks from Mr. Kunihiko Fushimi, Director of International Classifications and Standards Division and FIT/JP IP Global Manager at WIPO, and Mr. Oluwatobiloba Moody, Director of WIPO Nigeria Office. They emphasized WIPO’s dedication to supporting IP in Nigeria, a commitment that spans over 35 years since 1987. They highlighted how Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) are crucial to driving innovation across Africa, stating that IP is the backbone for sustaining these enterprises.

In goodwill messages, Ms. Lynda Alpheus, Director of the Lagos Office of the Nigerian Copyright Commission, and Mr. Tunbosun Alake, Lagos State Commissioner for Innovation, Science, and Technology, reinforced the importance of IP protection. They spoke passionately about their mandate to ensure creatives can profit from their ideas, and how IP transforms intangible concepts into valuable assets that can attract investments. “Intellectual property brings the ideas in your mind to life,” Mr. Alake stated, underlining the power of IP in fostering original and investable innovations.

Mr. Nasir Yammama, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Innovation, delivered the keynote address, emphasizing the urgent need for robust IP frameworks to support innovation, particularly in tackling climate change. He called for IP education from an early age, asserting that understanding IP is fundamental for knowledge-based growth. He added that the IP for Green Innovation initiative would not only contribute to environmental sustainability but would also protect and nurture new ideas in renewable energy and green technology.

He concluded with a powerful reminder: “The future belongs to creators, and WIPO is here to help.” This statement resonated with the audience, setting a hopeful tone for the launch of the new initiatives.

An Overview of the WIPO IP Labs and IP for Green Innovation Projects

The official launch brought insights from Ms. Olaronke Famuyiwa, Project Officer at WIPO Nigeria Office, Mr. Bankole Oloruntoba, Team Lead at Nigeria Climate Innovation Centre, and Mr. Ololade Otayemi, Founder of Orbra Company. They spoke on how these projects are designed to elevate green economy innovations in Nigeria, supporting new ideas in renewable energy and sustainable practices.

With the IP Labs, WIPO aims to foster ideas that go beyond software to include hardware-driven innovations. IP for Green Innovation, in particular, seeks to identify and nurture the best products in the green industry, ensuring they are well-protected and can thrive in a competitive global market.

Panel Discussion: Intellectual Property’s Role in Nigeria’s Innovation Ecosystem

The event featured a lively panel discussion on “The Role of Intellectual Property in Building an Innovative Society for Nigeria.” Moderated by Ms. Olaronke Famuyiwa, the panel included industry leaders such as Mr. Senator Ihenyen, Mr. Victor Boyle-Komolafe, Mr. Lanre Ogundipe, Ms. Shukurat Amosa, and Ms. Tracy Okoro Isaac.

The panelists explored various aspects of IP, highlighting its value as an intangible asset and its contribution to economic growth. They noted that IP accounts for 40% of the GDP in the United States, illustrating its potential for Nigerian innovation. A key takeaway was the importance of commercialization — how translating IP into marketable solutions can give Nigerian entrepreneurs a global edge. The discussion also touched on challenges like limited government support for local content and the need for access to prototyping resources.

Reflecting on their own experiences, the panelists encouraged attendees to engage with the IP community, reinforcing WIPO’s role in building networks that support innovators. They also provided practical advice on navigating the complexities of IP, including the nuances between patents and trade secrets, and the difference between fair use and IP.

As a partner, The Nest played an integral role in organizing and promoting the event, engaging its vibrant community of entrepreneurs and creatives. At The Nest, IP is seen as a “force field” that protects and empowers innovations — from groundbreaking tech to cultural expressions. This partnership with WIPO demonstrates The Nest’s commitment to equipping Nigerian innovators with the resources and knowledge to succeed in a competitive global landscape.

By bringing together stakeholders from government, private sectors, and the creative community, The Nest and WIPO created a platform for valuable dialogue and connection, reinforcing the importance of IP for a sustainable future.

The Future of IP and Green Innovation

As Nigeria continues to grapple with environmental challenges, the IP for Green Innovation Projects promise to produce new solutions that are both inventive and environmentally conscious. The partnership between The Nest and WIPO is not just a celebration of what has been achieved, but a call to action for what lies ahead. With WIPO’s support and The Nest’s commitment, Nigerian entrepreneurs and creatives are poised to make strides in innovation that will impact the nation — and the world — sustainably.