Rita Anwiri Chindah is not just a lecturer at Rivers State University—she is a visionary shaping the future of African Intellectual Property (IP) law and cultural heritage. Currently pursuing her doctoral research on Intangible Cultural Heritage and Traditional Knowledge, Rita has become one of Nigeria’s most influential voices in IP, driving conversations that resonate across Africa and beyond.
With a Master’s degree in Intellectual Property and Information Technology from the University of Derby, UK, Rita has built a career that bridges academia, advocacy, and innovation. She is the creator and host of IPSERIES, Sub-Saharan Africa’s only dedicated IP podcast, with over 143 episodes and 34 newsletter editions that deliver cutting-edge insights into global IP developments. Her platform has become a beacon for creatives, innovators, and policymakers seeking clarity in the complex world of intellectual property.
Rita’s impact extends far beyond the classroom and podcast studio. She played a pivotal role in drafting the Rivers State ICT Policy and contributed to Nigeria’s Geographical Indication Law, supported by AfrPi, AITCR, and the European Union. As the Chief Convener of the Intellectual Property Society of Nigeria (IPSN), she has organized landmark events such as World IP Day and the IPSERIES Creative Summit, with the 2025 edition proudly supported by the British Council.
Recognitions & Awards
Rita’s excellence has been celebrated with numerous accolades:
– MIPLG IP Podcast of the Year Award (2024 & 2025)
– Legal Practice Award for IP
– Featured on BBC’s “Gist Nigeria” Programme on Channels TV
– Named among Top 20 Women in IP (2023) by IPLAN
– YLP Tech & Innovation in Law Award (2022)
– Young Legal Professional Award of Excellence (2021)
– ESQ 40under40 Rising Star Award (2021)
– Listed among Leading Nigerian Women in Business Law by ESQ Legal Practice Magazine
– Recognized as a WIPR Influential Women in IP Trailblazer (2020)
– Featured in AllThingsIP Africa Magazine and TechPoint Africa Everyday People
Leadership & Contributions
Rita has held distinguished leadership roles, including:
– Chair of the Intellectual Property Committee at CIArb Port Harcourt Chapter
– Pro-Term Secretary & Public Relations Officer at CIArb
– Team Lead of the NBA-SBL ICT Technology Policy Working Group
– First Vice Chair of the NBA-SBL Sports, Entertainment, and Media Committee
– Member of the CIArb Young Members Group Global Steering Committee
– Chair of the Media & Entertainment Subcommittee of the NBA-SLP TMT Committee
Her influence also extends to thought leadership, serving as a judge for the Adavize Alao Essay Competition on Privacy and Data Protection (four consecutive years) and as a Legal Influencer for 4cLegal International Hub (2020–2024).
Beyond her professional achievements, Rita is a sought-after speaker, trainer, and advisor, empowering creatives and institutions to harness IP for growth.
Passionate about culture, innovation, and storytelling, Rita is redefining how Africa protects and celebrates its intellectual and creative wealth.