Trademark registration is one of the most important steps any brand owner can take to protect a business name, logo, or symbol in Nigeria. A registered trademark gives you exclusive rights to use your brand identity and protects it from being copied or misused by others.
In this complete guide, you will learn what trademark registration means, the requirements, the step by step process, the stages involved, and what you really need to know before registering a trademark in Nigeria.
What Is a Trademark?
A trademark is any word, name, logo, symbol, or combination of these that identifies and distinguishes your goods or services from others. Once registered, the trademark becomes your legal property for a specific period and can be enforced against infringement.
In Nigeria, trademark registration is handled by the Trademarks, Patents and Designs Registry under the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment.
Trademark Name Search in Nigeria
The first and most important step in trademark registration is name search.
Before you can register a trademark, you must confirm that the name, logo, or symbol is not already registered or too similar to an existing trademark.
To do a proper name search, you must first identify the class your trademark falls under.
Trademark Classes Explained
All goods and services are grouped into 45 trademark classes:
- Classes 1ā34 cover goods
- Classes 35ā45 cover services
Choosing the correct class is very important, as your trademark protection only applies within the selected class.
Once the name search is completed and the result is favorable, you can proceed with registration.
Requirements for Trademark Registration in Nigeria
To register a trademark in Nigeria, you will need the following:
- The word, logo, or symbol you want to trademark
- Basic information of the applicant or brand owner
- A Power of Attorney authorising the filing of the trademark
You do not need to be a lawyer to obtain a Power of Attorney. A standard approved format can be used and properly completed.
Step-by-Step Process of Trademark Registration in Nigeria
Step 1: Create an Account on the Trademark Portal
The registration process starts by visiting the official trademark portal and creating an account to begin the application.
Step 2: Conduct Trademark Name Search
A name search is carried out to confirm that the trademark is available within the chosen class.
Step 3: File the Trademark Application
Once the name search is successful, the trademark application is submitted online. After submission, an acknowledgment letter is issued immediately.
Trademark Publication Stage
After acceptance, the trademark is published by the registry in the Trademark Journal or National Gazette.
This publication allows the public to raise objections if any. You do not need to take any action during this stage, as it is handled by the registry.
Publication may take several months.
Application for Trademark Certificate
After publication, there is a waiting period. If no objection is raised within the stipulated time, you can proceed to apply for the Trademark Certificate.
The certificate is the final proof of ownership and is required for future processes such as renewal.
Trademark Renewal in Nigeria
Trademark protection is not permanent.
After the certificate is issued, the trademark is valid for seven years. After this period, it must be renewed. Subsequent renewals are done every fourteen years.
Important note:
- You cannot renew a trademark using an acceptance letter
- Renewal can only be done with a trademark certificate
Failure to renew allows another person to register or use the trademark legally.
Why Trademark Registration Is Important
- Protects your brand identity
- Prevents others from using your name or logo
- Strengthens brand credibility
- Required for some regulatory registrations
- Gives legal backing in disputes
Final Thoughts
Trademark registration in Nigeria is a structured process that begins with name search and ends with certification and renewal. While the acceptance letter covers most immediate business needs, the certificate is essential for long term brand protection.
Registering your trademark early helps you avoid conflicts, brand theft, and future legal issues.
Need Help Registering Your Trademark?
Avoid mistakes, delays, and rejected applications.
Brand Growth Expert offers trademark registration services. Trademark name search, registration, and acceptance processing in Nigeria.
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