The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) Nigeria Office hosted a high-level seminar titled “Intellectual Property and the Business of Sport in Nigeria” as part of activities marking World Intellectual Property Day 2026. The event brought together policymakers, sports administrators, legal experts, athletes, entrepreneurs, and members of the media to discuss the growing role of intellectual property (IP) in shaping Nigeria’s sports industry.
A group photo of dignitaries at the High-Level Seminar on IP and Sport
Speaking at the seminar, Hon. Shehu Dikko, Chairman, National Sports Commission, outlined ongoing reforms aimed at transforming sports into a self-sustaining industry through commercialization, governance reforms, and private sector investment. He revealed that the National Sports Commission has established a Sports Investment Promotion Office, which has already attracted over ₦50 billion in public-private partnership investments.
Left to right: National Sport Chairman, Hon. Shehu Dikko; Director, WIPO Nigeria Office, Dr. Oluwatobiloba Moody
In his opening remarks, Oluwatobiloba Moody, Director, WIPO Nigeria Office, emphasized that sports extend beyond entertainment and represent a significant economic sector powered by innovation, branding, broadcasting, technology, and fan engagement. He highlighted the importance of embedding IP awareness at the grassroots level to support sustainable growth across the sports ecosystem.
Hon. Bello El-Rufai commended the reforms within the sports sector and stressed the need for stronger legislative frameworks to ensure transparency and sustainability. He noted that the seminar further deepened his understanding of the relationship between intellectual property and sports development.
Left to right: Sport Business and Institutional Strategy Advisor, Ms. Gbemisola Abudu; CEO/Founder Monalisa Sports and Recreational Park, Mohammed Jammal; Senior Presenter, Channels TV, Mr. Kayode Okikiolu; Sports Lawyer, Ms. Beverley Agbakoba-Onyejianya; Sports Academic, Dr. Emmanuel Olowononi
The seminar also featured the participation and special remarks from Mr. Daniel Amokachi, MON, OON who shared his experience with the IP system, as a former professional footballer, a coach and also a talent manager, highlighting the need for early education of athletes on their rights. Remarks were also provided by the representatives of the Nigerian Copyright Commission, Patents and Designs Registry as well as the Trademarks Registry.
Following this, a specialized panel session moderated by Mr. Kayode Okikiolu, Senior Presenter, Channels TV brought together experts, Ms. Beverley Agbakoba-Onyejianya, Dr. Emmanuel Olowononi, Ms. Gbemisola Abudu, and Mohammed Jammal whose combined experiences span across sports law, academia, and business to discuss athlete image rights, sports commercialization including broadcast rights and licensing, branding, and governance.
Cross section with participants
A group picture of participants at the High-Level Seminar on IP and Sport
Participants engaged in interactive discussions on how intellectual property can drive innovation, protect value, and create economic opportunities within Nigeria’s sports sector.
WIPO also announced the upcoming launch on April 29, of a specialized IP and Sports course, DL-464 by the WIPO Academy to further strengthen awareness and capacity development in the sector.