The University of Ibadan (UI) has reiterated the need for a strong innovation and research ecosystem to drive Nigeria’s socio-economic development, as the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) inaugurated a Technology and Innovation Support Centre (TISC) at the institution.
Speaking during a research and development fair, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Kayode O. Adebowale, emphasised that research must be backed by a robust innovation framework that includes incubators, intellectual property systems, and technology transfer offices.
He urged universities in Nigeria to promote interdisciplinary research, reward innovation and encourage calculated risk-taking that will ensure ideas transition from prototypes to real-world applications through viable business models and strategic partnerships.
According to him, “adequate and stable funding, good institutional governance and an enabling policy environment are essential for sustainable research development.”
He maintained that universities must be positioned to create long-term social and economic value for the nation.
In her remarks at the inauguration of the TISC, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research, Innovation and Strategic Partnerships), Professor Oluyemisi A. Bamgbose (SAN), who represented the Vice-Chancellor, noted that the centre marks a new chapter in advancing innovation and strengthening intellectual property culture at the university.
Also speaking, the Special Guest of Honour and Director of the WIPO Nigeria Office, Dr. Oluwatobiloba Moody, stated that intellectual property remains central to national development.
He described IP as “the engine at the heart of driving innovation,” noting that inventions, creative works, designs, and commercial symbols must be protected to ensure creators benefit from their ideas.
Dr. Moody explained that understanding intellectual property is crucial in commercialising research outputs, stressing that taking an invention “from the laboratory out into the world” requires a structured multi-step approach anchored on IP rights.
The WIPO-established centre, located at the University’s Centre for Intellectual Property Protection and Commercialisation (CIPPaC), will support researchers, inventors, and entrepreneurs by providing training, special tools, learning resources, and networking opportunities.
It aims to help innovators protect, manage, and maximise value from their intellectual property while accelerating the journey from concept to market.
Earlier, Chairman of the UI Research and Development (RESDEV) Committee, Professor Andrew Fadoju, noted that the fair aimed to foster collaboration, showcase innovation, and explore new opportunities.
A major highlight of the event was the Gen-Z Hackathon 2.0 grand finale, featuring five finalist teams pitching creative solutions, with the top three receiving cash prizes. The ceremony was followed by a two-day innovation exhibition.
