Highlights of the Keynote Address by Aisha Ado Abdullahi, Lead Counsel at Green Edge Attorneys Delivered on her behalf by Jazira Ahmad Bello at the event organized by the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Legal Aid Community Development Service (CDS), Kano State) held at Babale Suites Ltd, No. 8 Dabo Muhammad Close, Off New Race Course, Nasarawa GRA, Kano.
In her address titled “Empowering Innovation through Intellectual Property: The Future is Yours to Protect,” Aisha Ado Abdullahi emphasized the need to safeguard youth-driven innovation in Kano State through the effective use of Intellectual Property (IP) law.
She noted that Kano has a rich history of creativity and entrepreneurship, which is now thriving in emerging sectors such as technology, fashion, entertainment, and startups. However, many of these innovative efforts remain unprotected and vulnerable to exploitation.
Aisha outlined the four major forms of Intellectual Property protection:
✅ Copyright protects artistic, literary, and creative works.
✅ Trademarks safeguard brand names, logos, and symbols.
✅ Patents secure inventions and grant exclusive rights.
✅ Industrial Designs protect the unique appearance of products.
She also highlighted the crucial roles of relevant agencies such as the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), the Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC), and the Trademarks Registry in supporting IP protection efforts.
Aisha further noted that Intellectual Property holds immense global economic value, and that with increased awareness and stronger legal frameworks, Kano can emerge as a hub of protected innovation in Nigeria. She called for collaboration between innovators and legal professionals, as well as simplified IP registration processes, capacity-building programs, and sponsorship opportunities to empower young creators.
In conclusion, she urged young innovators to treat their ideas as valuable assets, protect their creations, and take ownership of their innovations to drive economic growth, creativity, and independence in Kano State and Nigeria at large.
