The Law Students’ Association of Nigeria, Usmanu Danfodiyo University Sokoto (LAWSAN-UDUS), on Thursday, December, 11, paid a study visit to the National Office for Technology Acquisition and Promotion (NOTAP) at its headquarters in Abuja.
The purpose of the visit was to deepen students’ understanding of technology law, innovation systems, and intellectual property development in Nigeria.
The LAWSAN UDUS delegation was received by the Director-General of NOTAP, Dr. Barr. Obiageli Edith Amadiobi, and other senior management staff, including Engr. Ifeanyi N. Ebeku, Director of Corporate Planning; Mrs. Celina Misem Kwasu (ACA), Director of Finance Management and Accounts; Mrs. Caroline M. Anie-Osuagwu, Director of Technology Acquisition and Research Coordination; and Mrs. Vivian N. Osuagwu, Head of Procurement.
Members of the LAWSAN UDUS delegates included Ibrahim Shafi’u Adam, President of the association; Zainab Wali, Vice President; and Muhammad Sani Murtala, Social Director.
During the session, the Director-General expressed delight at hosting the delegation and commended the students for their interest in technology law, innovation, and intellectual property regulation. She briefed the students on the mandate and operations of NOTAP, particularly its role in regulating technology transfer agreements, promoting indigenous innovation, and strengthening Nigeria’s knowledge-based economy.
Dr. Amadiobi emphasized the need for youth engagement in national development, noting that law students, as they are the future policymakers, regulators, and advocates, must understand where law, technology, and innovation intersects.
During the visit, there were further discussions about the establishment of an Intellectual Property and Technology Transfer Office (IPTTO) within the Faculty of Law, UDUS, to enhance IP awareness, support student innovators, and bridge the gap between academic research and practical innovation. The Director-General expressed strong support for the proposal and encouraged further engagement with the university management, assuring NOTAP’s readiness to collaborate with UDUS.
One of the major outcomes of the visit was NOTAP’s assurance of free patent registration support for UDUS innovators, in line with its mandate to empower young innovators and promote university-based research and development.
The delegates also received a guided, department-by-department tour of NOTAP facilities, coordinated by Barr. Shuaibu Badamasi, Head of the Anti-Corruption and Transparency Unit (ACTU). The tour provided them with practical exposure to the vetting of technology transfer agreements, patent processing, and monitoring of research outcomes.
In addition, LAWSAN UDUS formally invited the Director-General and NOTAP management to participate in the forthcoming UDUS Intellectual Property Summit. Discussions also covered the provision of educational and IP-based learning materials, as well as the inclusion of UDUS students in ongoing and future NOTAP programs focused on innovation, research, and capacity building.
In her closing remarks, Dr. Amadiobi encouraged students to remain inquisitive, innovative, and committed to national development and reaffirmed NOTAP’s openness and willingness to continued collaboration with the Faculty of Law, UDUS.
The visit concluded with the presentation of souvenirs, group photographs, and expressions of mutual appreciation.
Report By Abdfatah Muhammed O.