Introduction
Trademark systems aim to protect identifying signs that help customers to determine the source of particular goods or services. Words, names and logos are noticeable identifiers, but colours, shapes and trade dress are also distinguishing factors for a brand. Therefore, their protection is available in many jurisdictions.
However, the understanding of trademarks in Nigeria appears limited to conventional word marks and logo designs or devices. While recognition of unconventional marks (eg, shapes and colours) may be inferred from the Trademarks Act 1990, not many applications are filed at the Trademarks, Patents and Designs Registry, Commercial Law Department, Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment for the registration of shapes and colours of goods.