Nigeria Trademark registration
In Nigeria the legal basis is the Trade Marks Act CAP T13 Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2004. Trademark protection is obtained by registration.
Requirements
A trademark application has to be filed before the Trademarks Registry by a local agent. A non-legalized power of attorney is sufficient. Foreign applicants do not need a domestic registration.
Procedure
The application process includes a formal examination, an examination of distinctiveness and a search for the availability of the proposed trademark. Provided the applicant is working with a diligent local agent, it takes approximately 3 to 4 months from first filing to registration. Before registration the trademark application is published in the Trademark Journal. Every opposition shall be made within 2 months from the publication of the trademark application.
Duration
A trademark registration in Nigeria is valid for 7 years and starts with registration date. The registration is renewable for periods of 14 years.
Methods
NATIONAL REGISTRATION: If you just want to register your Trademark in one country, it is sufficient to apply for a national registration at the local trademark office.
Extra
Duly note, if the trademark has not been used within 5 years from issue of the registration certificate or has not been used later for a continuous period of 5 years, it may be subject to cancellation.