LEVERAGING INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY AS A GUIDE FOR THE FULFILMENT OF SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS IN NIGERIA

Abstract

Intellectual property (IP) is an indispensable tool for fostering innovation, driving economic growth, and promoting cultural and social development. By encouraging creativity and technological advancement, intellectual property can empower societies to address global challenges and build a more sustainable, equitable, and prosperous future. Although Africa is endowed with abundant natural resources and hosts the world’s largest free trade area, the continent continues to face significant developmental challenges, including poverty, illiteracy, unemployment, and high mortality rates.

Despite the adoption of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as a universal framework for improving environmental sustainability, human well-being, and economic development, Nigeria has made limited progress toward achieving these objectives. This article examines the role of intellectual property in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals by encouraging responsible and ethical innovation, investment, and creativity.

Adopting a doctrinal approach, the study argues that the effective realization of the SDGs cannot be achieved without active government participation. It concludes that government intervention is essential in creating an enabling environment for innovation through effective intellectual property protection, public awareness campaigns, and institutional support. The article therefore recommends increased government involvement in promoting education and awareness of intellectual property rights, strengthening enforcement mechanisms, and providing incentives that encourage innovation and creativity. Such measures would enhance the responsible utilization of intellectual property and contribute meaningfully to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals in Nigeria.