Traditional Medicine Knowledge

The Traditional Medical Knowledge (TMK) Project, implemented under the WIPO Training, Mentoring, and Match-Making Program on Intellectual Property and Traditional Medical Knowledge, supports the protection, promotion, and commercialization of Nigeria’s indigenous medical knowledge.

Through this initiative, I serve as the National Consultant, working alongside WIPO Nigeria and the Commercial Law Department of the Federal Ministry of Investment, Industry, and Commerce, to strengthen Nigeria’s innovation ecosystem rooted in traditional medicine. The project empowers traditional healers and local communities to effectively use intellectual property (IP) tools — such as trademarks, collective and certification marks — to safeguard their knowledge, create economic value, and build community resilience, especially in the post-COVID era.

Our work involves identifying key national stakeholders, facilitating consultations across government, civil society, and indigenous communities, and organizing capacity-building workshops that equip participants with practical IP and business skills. Beyond training, the project provides mentorship and hands-on support for trademark design, registration, and commercialization, helping transform traditional knowledge into sustainable community assets.