A trademark is a form of intellectual property that is used to distinguish the goods or services of one business from those of another. A trademark can take many forms, including a logo, a word or phrase, a slogan, a sound, or even a color. In essence, a trademark serves as a symbol that identifies the source of a particular product or service.

Purpose of a Trademark

The primary purpose of a trademark is to protect a business's brand and prevent confusion in the marketplace. By establishing a unique trademark, a business can distinguish its products or services from those of its competitors. This distinction can be critical in building brand recognition and customer loyalty.

Registration of Trademark in Nigeria

The trademark is registered through the Trademarks, Patents and Designs Registry, Commercial Law Department of the Ministry of Trade and Investment. Before making the application, the trademark must be searched at the appropriate class to check whether it is not in conflict with any existing mark.

Trademark Classification

The NICE classification is an international system used to classify goods and services for the purposes of trademark registration. It was established by the Nice Agreement in 1957 and is currently maintained by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO).

The NICE classification consists of 45 classes, with classes 1-34 covering goods and classes 35-45 covering services. Each class represents a specific category of goods or services, and trademarks are registered for specific classes based on the goods or services that they are intended to be used for.

The 45 classes of the NICE classification are:

Classes 1-34 (Goods)

  1. Chemicals
  2. Paints
  3. Cosmetics and cleaning preparations
  4. Lubricants and fuels
  5. Pharmaceuticals
  6. Metals and metal goods
  7. Machinery and machine tools
  8. Hand tools
  9. Electrical and scientific apparatus
  10. Medical apparatus
  11. Environmental control apparatus
  12. Vehicles
  13. Firearms
  14. Jewelry and precious stones
  15. Musical instruments
  16. Paper goods and printed matter
  17. Rubber goods
  18. Leather goods
  19. Non-metallic building materials
  20. Furniture and articles not otherwise classified
  21. Housewares and glass
  22. Cordage and fibers
  23. Yarns and threads
  24. Fabrics
  25. Clothing
  26. Fancy goods
  27. Floor coverings
  28. Toys and sporting goods
  29. Meats and processed foods
  30. Staple foods
  31. Natural agricultural products
  32. Beers and beverages
  33. Wines and spirits
  34. Tobacco products

Classes 35-45 (Services)

  1. Advertising and business services
  2. Insurance and financial services
  3. Building construction and repair services
  4. Telecommunications services
  5. Transportation and storage services
  6. Treatment of materials services
  7. Education and entertainment services
  8. Computer and scientific services
  9. Hotel and restaurant services
  10. Medical and veterinary services
  11. Personal and legal services

The NICE classification system is used by many countries around the world, including Nigeria, to classify and register trademarks for specific goods and services. It provides a standardized framework for trademark registration and helps to ensure consistency and clarity in the registration process.

Steps for Trademark Registration in Nigeria

In Nigeria, the procedure for trademark registration involves several steps, which are:

  • Conduct a search: Before applying for a trademark registration, it is important to conduct a search to ensure that the proposed trademark does not infringe on any existing trademarks. This can be done by searching the Nigerian Trademarks Registry files. Currently, a trademark search cannot be conducted online in Nigeria, the search must be manually conducted at the registry.
  • File an application: Once the search has been conducted and the proposed trademark is deemed available, an application can be filed with the Trademarks Registry. The application should include the name, address, and nationality of the applicant, a clear representation of the trademark, and the goods or services for which the trademark will be used.
  • Examination: After filing the application, the Trademarks Registry will examine the application to ensure that it complies with the relevant laws and regulations. If there are any issues, the Registry may issue an objection or request for additional information.
  • Publication: Once the application has been accepted, it will be published in the Trademarks Journal. This allows interested parties to oppose the registration if they believe that the trademark infringes on their rights.
  • Opposition: If an opposition is filed, the Trademarks Registry will investigate the matter and may hold a hearing to determine whether the opposition is valid. A valid opposition must be filed within two months after the publication of the trademark
  • Issuance of certificate: If there are no oppositions, or if the oppositions have been resolved in favor of the applicant, the Trademarks Registry will issue a certificate of registration.

The process of trademark registration in Nigeria usually takes between 12 to 24 months, depending on various factors such as the number of objections and oppositions filed. It is recommended to seek the advice of a legal professional experienced in Nigerian trademark law to ensure that the application is filed correctly and to minimize the risk of objections or oppositions.

Current Development on Trademark Applications

Currently, the trademark applications in Nigeria can now be filed online, however, the search can only still be done manually, as the past trademarks issued in Nigeria are not yet fully uploaded online, making it impossible for a successful search to be conducted online. Once the trademark has been accepted or registered, the registration acceptance can be downloaded or printed online via the agent's portal. Although the certificates can be paid for online after the successful publications, but the issuance of the certificates still require additional processing at the registry.

Trademark Infringement

Trademark infringement occurs when another party uses a registered trademark without permission. In cases of infringement, a trademark owner can take legal action to protect their trademark rights. Remedies for trademark infringement can include injunctive relief, damages, and the seizure of infringing goods.

Conclusion

In conclusion, trademarks are a critical aspect of branding and are essential to the success of any business. By establishing a unique trademark, businesses can protect their intellectual property and distinguish their products or services from those of their competitors.

The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.