Overview
Niger protects trademarks, patents, and industrial designs within the regional structure of the Organisation Africaine de la Propriété Intellectuelle (OAPI). Rights registered via OAPI automatically extend to all member states, including Niger. Despite reliance on OAPI’s centralized procedures, enforcement of these rights may take place locally in Niger, allowing rights holders to address infringements through legal or administrative measures.
OAPI’s regional approach streamlines filings, offering uniform standards and a single process for multiple jurisdictions. This facilitates both domestic and foreign applicants seeking comprehensive IP coverage in West and Central Africa.
International Conventions
Through OAPI membership and supplementary international commitments, Niger adheres to several key treaties that shape its IP framework, including:
• Paris Convention
• Berne Convention
• TRIPS Agreement
• Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT)