The journey of a life sciences invention from laboratory discovery to global commercialization is fraught with both opportunities and risks. From pharmaceuticals and biotechnology to medical devices, the life sciences sector is one of the most heavily regulated and globally integrated industries.
As innovations cross borders, so do the legal complexities surrounding intellectual property (IP) rights, regulatory approvals, licensing formalities, and technology transfer restrictions. For businesses, universities, and multinational corporations, understanding and managing these challenges is crucial to ensuring effective commercialization and risk mitigation. This article explores the critical legal and regulatory issues that shape the licensing of life sciences IP, with a focus on Nigeria as a case study.