Intellectual Property Rights in Nigeria's Agricultural Sector: Promoting Sustainable Development and Food Security Through Innovation

The agricultural sector plays a major role in enhancing the Nigerian economy andcontributes to its development. Despite this promising advantage, the sector isfaced with challenges ranging from food insecurity to environmental crises causedby limitations in the advancement and efficiency of eco-friendly productionpractices, poor technological innovations, and economic instability. Intellectualproperty rights (IPR) seek to protect inventions and inventors, who encourageinnovative creation and foster a conducive environment for investments andsustainable development. This paper examines the roles of IPRs in the agriculturalsector, specifically in promoting sustainable development and food security inNigeria. It explores the opportunities and economic challenges faced in ensuringsustainable development in Nigeria through agricultural practices. This paperexplores regulatory hindrances that may arise in promoting food security andsustainable development. To achieve the paper’s objectives, the doctrinal researchmethodology was adopted. The paper’s findings highlight key challenges faced,such as poor awareness of IPRs, limited resources, a lack of specialised courts inthe enforcement of IPRs, and poor technological capacity. It recommendsregulatory reforms that encourage agricultural practices that promote sustainabledevelopment, increased rural public enlightenment schemes, and investment intechnological advancement. A shift in creating effective technologies and adoptingsustainable practices with IPRs will contribute to food security, industrial growth,and sustainable development.