Comprehensive Guide to the Cost of Trademark Registration in Nigeria
Protecting your brand is essential in today’s competitive business environment, and securing a trademark is a critical step in safeguarding your intellectual property. If you are considering trademark registration in Nigeria, this guide provides a detailed breakdown of the costs involved and insights into the process.
Why Trademark Registration Matters
A trademark is more than a logo or name; it is a representation of your business identity, ensuring exclusive rights to use the mark and preventing others from infringing on your brand. By registering your trademark in Nigeria, you gain legal protection under Nigerian intellectual property law.
Cost of Trademark Registration in Nigeria
The costs for trademark registration in Nigeria vary depending on the specific services required. Below is a detailed breakdown:
| S/N | Service Description | Fees (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Search for wordmark | 200 |
| 2 | Search for design/drawing/logo | 250 |
| 3 | Application for registration of trademark/service mark | 800 |
| 4 | Application for renewal | 800 |
| 5 | Penalty for late renewal of a trademark/service mark | 400 |
| 6 | Review of refused trademark | 1000 |
| 7 | Application for assignment | 700 |
| 8 | Penalty for late registration of trademark assignment | 400 |
| 9 | Application for license | 600 |
| 10 | Drafting of licensing instrument | 800 |
| 11 | Registration of registered user of a trademark | 600 |
| 12 | Certificate of registration | 500 |
| 13 | Certified true copy of renewal certificate | 400 |
| 14 | Certified true copy of other register entries | 300 |
| 15 | Correction/modification of registered particulars | 400 |
| 16 | Reclassification of a mark | 400 |
| 17 | Filing notice of opposition | 1500 |
| 18 | Response to opposition | 1500 |
| 19 | Application for cancellation for non-use | 1500 |
| 20 | Response to cancellation action | 1500 |
| 21 | Translation fee (per 100 foreign words to English) | 40 |
Additional Costs of Trademark Registration in Nigeria and Considerations
While the above table outlines standard costs, certain circumstances may require additional services, such as responding to oppositions or addressing refusals. It’s advisable to conduct a comprehensive trademark search to identify potential conflicts before proceeding with your application.
Steps to Register a Trademark in Nigeria
- Conduct a Trademark Search: Verify that your desired trademark is unique and not already registered.
- File an Application: Submit your application to the Nigerian Trade Marks Registry, specifying the classes of goods or services associated with the trademark.
- Examination and Publication: The Registry will examine your application and publish it in the Trade Marks Journal for opposition purposes.
- Issuance of Certificate: Once approved, you will receive a Certificate of Registration, granting you exclusive rights to your trademark.
How Long Does Trademark Registration Take in Nigeria?
The timeline for trademark registration in Nigeria typically ranges from 12 to 24 months, depending on the complexity of the application and any opposition encountered.
Partnering with Professionals
Navigating the trademark registration process can be complex, especially for businesses unfamiliar with Nigerian IP law. Partnering with experienced intellectual property attorneys ensures that your application is properly handled, minimizing delays and potential pitfalls.
At Lex Artifex LLP, we specialize in intellectual property law, offering comprehensive services for trademark registration, enforcement, and commercialization in Nigeria. Our trademark attorneys are committed to helping businesses protect their brands and intellectual property rights.
Contact
For tailored assistance with your trademark registration needs in Nigeria, contact us at lexartifexllp@lexartifexllp.com or via WhatsApp at +234 803 979 5959. Let us help you secure your brand’s future today.