Rethinking biotechnology regulation in Nigeria: The role of open science and human rights, Lessons from India

This paper analyses the feasibility of adopting open science as an alternative approach to intellectual property rights (IPRs) about biotechnology research and development (R&D) in Nigeria. As the traditional approach to existing intellectual property standards emphasises individual exclusivity and market-driven research and development, particularly in the field of biotechnology, it tends to hamper access to and innovation in biotechnology, particularly in developing countries such as Nigeria. These implicate human rights concerns such as food security and public health. For predicting the prospects and possible legal challenges of establishing an open science-based biotechnology research and innovation system in Nigeria, this paper pays particular attention to what lessons India could offer from adopting open science initiatives. Based on the lessons from India, the paper then explores the adaptation and implementation of an open science policy and legal framework that prioritises human rights concerns such as food security and public health.