Rethinking Nigerian geographical indications law

Abstract

This note makes the case that Nigeria needs to reconsider its legal framework for the protection of geographical indications. It is divided into three main parts. The first part focuses on the rules governing the protection of geographical indications at the international level. The second part examines the current legal framework for the protection of geographical indications in Nigeria. The second part of the note further highlights the gaps between the Nigerian legal framework and the international rules for the protection of geographical indications. The third part of the note explains how the gaps identified in the second part of the note can be closed. This note recommends that Nigeria should enact a sui generis law for the protection of geographical indications. This would enable geographical indications from Nigeria to be effectively protected both inside and outside the country.