Nigeria Trademark Renewal

A trademark in Nigeria is valid for an initial period of 7 years, and then renewable every 14 years thereafter.

• Standard renewal window: Begins 3 months before expiration
• Grace period: 1 month after expiration (not strictly enforced in practice)
• Practical extension: Late renewals may be accepted even beyond grace period, until the mark is removed from the register

• Duly executed Authorisation of Agent
• Copy of:
• Most recent certificate of renewal or,
• Expired registration certificate
• Payment of official and late renewal fees

• If removed from the register, a trademark may still be restored under Section 23(3) of the Trade Marks Act
• Application for restoration must meet Registrar conditions and is subject to approval

• The Registrar is legally required to notify owners before cancellation, but this is not reliably practiced
• Keep your contact and agent details updated with the Registry

Avoid:

• Assuming grace period deadlines are strictly enforced
• Failing to pay the late renewal surcharge
• Neglecting to keep agent authorization current

You can still renew after expiry by paying a late fee, as long as the mark has not been removed. Once removed, restoration is possible under special conditions.

Yes, under Section 23(3), with the Registrar approval. The mark must not have been on the register for over 1 year, and restoration may be opposed.

No. Use is not required for renewal or restoration of trademarks in Nigeria.

Submit updates directly to the Trademarks Registry to ensure compliance.