Intellectual Property: The Nigerian Experience and Perspective

Abstract

The paper accounts for intellectual property from the Nigerian perspective. Experiences, in Nigeria, had shown little or no understanding of the concept of intellectual property rights thereby resulting into its violation, even by the educated elite. Stiffness in creativity and low interest to invest in publishing business are some of the identifiable consequences. The study, through qualitative analysis method, discusses the general concept of intellectual property, and examines its legality, enforcement, as well as challenges. It also identifies the major areas of intellectual property rights in the Nigerian publishing industry. The study conclusively proposes strategies and approaches to encourage the respect for intellectual property rights towards reshaping the structures of the Nigerian publishing industry.