As the world marks World Intellectual Property Day 2025 under the theme “IP and Music: Feel the Beat of IP,” the Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC) has called on all commercial users of music to obtain proper licenses from right holders or their approved representatives.
The Commission made the call during commemorations in Abuja, emphasizing the critical role that intellectual property protection plays in ensuring the sustainability of Nigeria’s booming music industry. With Afrobeats and other Nigerian musical genres enjoying unprecedented global acclaim, the NCC stressed that proper licensing is not only a legal obligation but a vital support system for the country’s creative economy.
“Music must feel the beat of intellectual property for the full potential of creativity to be realized,” the Commission stated, underscoring that behind every hit song is a network of creators whose livelihoods depend on fair compensation through royalties.
Despite the international success of Nigerian artists, the NCC noted that many musicians continue to face low royalty returns, worsened by rampant digital piracy. To address these challenges, the Commission has introduced revisions to the Collective Management Regulations aimed at promoting greater transparency, accountability, and good governance among Collective Management Organisations (CMOs).
The NCC also highlighted recent steps taken to strengthen enforcement measures, including its designation by the Honourable Attorney-General of the Federation as a relevant authority under the Proceeds of Crime (Recovery and Management) Act, 2022. These expanded powers, combined with provisions under the Copyright Act, 2022, enable the Commission to order the takedown of infringing materials and block websites engaged in the illegal distribution of music.
In addition to enforcement, the Commission announced plans to partner with private sector stakeholders to launch an aggressive anti-piracy campaign targeting digital platforms. New standards for transparency, digital audits, and real-time
