Requirements & Cost to Register a Trademark in Nigeria

 

Introduction

Registering a trademark in Nigeria is one of the most important steps you can take to secure your business identity, protect your intellectual property, and build long-term credibility. A trademark gives you the exclusive right to use your brand name, logo, slogan, or symbol, ensuring that no other person or company can legally copy or misuse them without your consent.

According to the Nigerian Registry of Trademarks, Patents and Designs, over 25,000 new trademark applications are filed annually, with Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt accounting for nearly 70% of the total. Yet, despite these numbers, thousands of small and medium businesses still operate without trademark protection, exposing themselves to infringement risks.

If you’ve built a brand identity — whether it’s a catchy name, a unique logo, or even a product package — then protecting it with a trademark is non-negotiable. Below we break down the requirements and the cost to register a trademark in Nigeria, along with practical tips to avoid mistakes.

 

What is a Trademark?

A trademark is a legally recognized mark, symbol, word, design, or combination of these that identifies and distinguishes your business from others. It assures your customers of authenticity and builds trust.

Examples of what you can trademark in Nigeria include:

• Names & Words: Your business name, product line, or slogan.
• Logos & Symbols: Visual designs that uniquely identify your brand.
• Labels & Packaging: Distinctive shapes, colors, or patterns that set your product apart.
• Sound Marks (rare): Unique jingles or audio branding.

Without a registered trademark, anyone can legally imitate your name or logo, forcing you into expensive legal battles that may not go in your favor.

 

Requirements to Register a Trademark in Nigeria

To successfully file a trademark application in Nigeria, you will need the following:

1. Applicant Information
   • Full name of the applicant (individual or company).
   • Address and nationality.
   • If it’s a company, the registered office address is required.
2. Trademark Sample
   • A clear representation of the logo, name, or symbol to be protected.
   • If it’s text-based, the word(s) must be clearly written.
   • For logos, high-resolution digital copies are needed.
3. Class of Goods or Services
   • Nigeria follows the Nice Classification system (1–45 classes).
   • Each class represents a specific industry (e.g., Class 3 for cosmetics, Class 25 for clothing, Class 43 for hospitality).
   • You must select the class(es) that match your business.
4. Power of Attorney
   • A signed authorization that allows a CAC-accredited or intellectual property agent to act on your behalf.
   • This is mandatory for most applications.
5. Supporting Documents
   • Valid ID for individuals (National ID, International Passport, Driver’s License).
   • Incorporation documents (CAC certificate) if it’s a company.
6. Payment of Official Fees
   • The Nigerian Trademark Registry requires payment for each class applied for.
   • Proof of payment must accompany the application.

 

Step-by-Step Process of Trademark Registration

The trademark registration process involves several stages that must be followed carefully:

1. Preliminary Search
   • Before filing, conduct a name/logo search to ensure the trademark isn’t already taken.
   • This avoids rejection and saves money.
2. Application Filing
   • Submit all required documents, trademark samples, and payment receipts to the Trademark Registry (Ministry of Industry, Trade & Investment).
3. Examination
   • The Registry examines your application to check compliance with the law.
   • If approved, your trademark moves to publication.
4. Journal Publication
   • The approved trademark is published in the Trademarks Journal for 60 days.
   • During this period, third parties can object if they believe the trademark infringes on theirs.
5. Approval & Certification
   • If there are no objections (or objections are resolved), the Registry issues a Certificate of Registration.
   • This certificate gives you exclusive rights over your trademark in Nigeria.

 

Cost of Trademark Registration in Nigeria

The cost of registering a trademark in Nigeria depends on the number of classes you apply under.

• Official Fees (per class): ₦45,000 – ₦65,000
• Professional Service Fees: ₦30,000 – ₦50,000 (depending on the accredited agent)
• Total Estimated Cost: ₦75,000 – ₦100,000 per class

For instance, if you want to protect your brand in two classes (say clothing and cosmetics), the cost will roughly double.

 

Why Trademark Protection Matters

• Exclusivity: Prevents competitors from copying your brand.
• Legal Rights: Gives you power to sue for infringement.
• Investor Confidence: Investors and partners trust businesses with registered intellectual property.
• Market Advantage: Sets your brand apart in crowded markets like Lagos, Aba, and Kano.

Did you know? A Zfrica quick survey of 50 SMEs across Aba and Port Harcourt showed that 82% of unregistered brands experienced at least one case of name or logo imitation within their first three years of operation.

Now that you know the requirements and cost to register a trademark in Nigeria, let’s explore the common mistakes to avoid, the legal timeframe, and how accredited agents like Zfrica can simplify the process for you.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Registering a Trademark

Even though the process looks straightforward, many businesses still make costly errors. Some of the most common mistakes include:

1. Skipping the Preliminary Search
   Many entrepreneurs assume their brand name or logo is unique without checking the Trademarks Registry. This often leads to rejection or disputes when another business already holds rights.
2. Choosing the Wrong Class
   If you file your trademark under the wrong class (for example, registering a food brand under clothing), the protection will not cover your actual industry. This leaves you exposed to copycats.
3. Incomplete Documentation
   Missing ID cards, unsigned Power of Attorney forms, or incomplete CAC documents often delay the process.
4. DIY Filing Without Expert Help
   While the CAC provides an online platform, handling a trademark application without professional help increases your risk of errors, rejections, or delays.

Tip: Zfrica has handled over 200 successful CAC and trademark filings since 2019. With us, you’ll avoid these pitfalls and get your certificate without unnecessary setbacks. Reach out to us today

 

Timelines for Trademark Registration in Nigeria

The process can take some time, especially at the Journal publication stage. Here’s the typical breakdown:

• Preliminary Search: 2–5 working days
• Application Filing & Acknowledgement: 5–7 working days
• Examination by Registry: 3–6 weeks
• Journal Publication: 2–3 months (60 days waiting period for objections)
• Certificate Issuance: 6–12 months after successful publication

On average, it takes 6–12 months to obtain a trademark certificate in Nigeria, depending on objections or Registry workload.

 

Why Use an Accredited Agent for Trademark Registration

Some business owners attempt to register their trademark directly with the Trademark Registry but end up frustrated by delays and legal technicalities. Accredited agents like Zfrica make the process seamless. Here’s why:

• Faster Processing: We know the CAC procedures inside out.
• Error-Free Applications: Proper documentation means no costly mistakes.
• Legal Guidance: We help you select the right trademark classes.
• Updates at Every Stage: From search to certification, we keep you informed.

With us, Zfrica, you’re not just filing a trademark; you’re securing your brand identity for long-term growth. Reach out to us now

 

How Much Does It Cost to Register a Trademark in Nigeria?

As mentioned earlier, the total cost typically falls between ₦75,000 – ₦100,000 per class, depending on the type of trademark and service charges.

Here’s a clearer breakdown:

• Official Filing Fee (per class): ₦45,000 – ₦65,000
• Agent/Professional Fee: ₦30,000 – ₦50,000
• Additional Class Fees: Multiply per industry category you want to cover.

For example:

• Registering “Zfrica Clothing” under Class 25 (Clothing) = ₦80,000.
• Adding “Zfrica Cosmetics” under Class 3 (Cosmetics) = another ₦80,000.

That way, you protect your brand across industries.

 

Practical Example

Imagine you run a bakery in Aba called SweetCrust. Without a trademark, another business could open in Lagos with the same name and register it legally, locking you out. If you had registered “SweetCrust” under Class 30 (Bakery & Confectionery), you alone would have the legal right to use that name anywhere in Nigeria.

This is the power of trademark registration.

 

Call to Action

To register a trademark in Nigeria, the requirements and costs can look overwhelming. That’s where we come in.

At Zfrica, we can assist you with:

• Trademark search and verification.
• Filing under the correct class.
• Handling CAC/Registry documentation.
• Delivering your certificate once approved.

Ready to protect your brand? Contact us today, and let’s help you register your trademark in Nigeria without delays. We are just a chat away

Conclusion

Registering a trademark in Nigeria is not just a legal necessity — it’s a business growth strategy. By securing your name, logo, or slogan, you protect your identity, attract investors, and build customer trust.

According to Zfrica customer data, nearly 60% of SMEs who registered a trademark within their first three years reported higher customer loyalty compared to unregistered peers. This proves that trademark protection is a long-term investment with immediate benefits.

FAQs

Q: How long does it take to register a trademark in Nigeria?
A: On average, 6–12 months, depending on objections or Registry delays.

Q: Can I register a trademark without a CAC-registered company?
A: Yes. Both individuals and companies can register trademarks.

Q: How long does a trademark last?
A: A trademark lasts for 7 years initially and can be renewed indefinitely every 14 years.

Q: Can one trademark cover multiple industries?
A: No. You must apply under each relevant class separately.

Q: Is a trademark the same as a business name?
A: No. A business name only identifies your business legally; a trademark protects your brand identity.