Protecting your brand: registering a trademark in Nigeria

A registered trademark gives a business the exclusive right to use its brand name or logo for the goods or services it is registered for. In Nigeria, trademarks are registered under the Trade Marks Act at the Trademarks Registry, which is part of the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment.

Step 1: Search before you apply

An availability search shows whether an identical or similar mark is already registered or pending in the same class. Skipping the search is the most common reason applications are refused or opposed later.

Step 2: Choose your class

Goods and services are grouped into numbered classes. Each application covers one class, so a business that sells both clothing and retail services may need more than one application.

Step 3: File the application

The application is filed with the Registry, which issues an acknowledgement. The filing date matters because protection is later counted from it.

Step 4: Examination and acceptance

The Registry examines the application. If it raises an objection, the applicant can respond. If the mark is accepted, the Registry issues an acceptance letter.

Step 5: Publication and opposition

Accepted marks are published in the Trade Marks Journal. For a set period after publication, other parties can oppose the registration.

Step 6: Registration

If there is no opposition, or an opposition is resolved in the applicant’s favour, the Registry issues a certificate of registration.

How long protection lasts

A registration lasts seven years from the filing date. It can be renewed for periods of 14 years at a time, as long as renewal fees are paid.

Registration is not the end

Monitor the Trade Marks Journal for similar marks, keep evidence that you use your mark, and act quickly against infringers.

This article is general information, not legal advice. For help protecting your brand, contact our Intellectual Property and Data Protection team.