The Nigerian Copyright Commission, NCC says it is deploying modern enforcement mechanisms to address illegal streaming, cable piracy and unauthorized public exhibitions as part of efforts to combat digital piracy and other related infringements on Intellectual Property.
The Director General of the NCC, Dr. John Asein stated this in a statement issued at an event organized by the Commission to mark 2026 World Intellectual Property, IP Day with the theme title IP and Sport Ready. Set. Innovate with the theme ” IP and Sports, Ready, Set, Innovate held at the University of Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
Dr. Asein who was represented by the Director, NCC Port Harcourt Directorate Office, Mr. Abdulsalami Babatunde noted that the policy provides a structural approach to strengthening the generation, protection and commercialization of intellectual property across key sectors including sports.
” The move is part of efforts to combat digital piracy and other related infringements leveraging the provisions of the Copyright Act: 2022. The enforcement actions are situated within the broader framework of the National Intellectual Property Policy and strategy which is a comprehensive roadmap aligned with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the federal government” he said.
The NCC boss urged Nigerian youth to take deliberate steps to harness the opportunities by Intellectual Property and stressed that the success of the policy largely depend not only on institutional framework but also on the active participation of citizens particularly the young people who are it’s primary beneficiaries.
‘I encourage the youths to acquire knowledge on IP rights, position themselves within the creative.and innovative. ecosysem as well as utilize available framework to creat , protect and commercialize their ideas and talents.
” In a global economy increasingly driven by knowledge and contents, IP provides a practical pathway for wealth creation, job generation and National development. Young Nigerians must be empowered to connect their creativity with legal and economic structures that enables value realization.” Dr Asein asserted.
According to Dr. Asein , the commission is committed to promoting a culture of respect for IP, strengthening enforcement against infringement and supporting policies that enhance Nigeria’s creative and sports industries.
In their separate presentations, a representative of the Nigerian Publishers Association, Mr. Okey Ogbonna and the Chairperson, Association of Nigerian Authors Rivers State, Mrs Joy Esuku called for all hands to be on deck to protect Intellectual Properties.
Also ,.a representative of the Nigerian Bar Association, Rita Anwiri-chinda spoke extensively on the need to seek authorization from the original owner of a work before usage to avoid being sued to court..
On his part, the Deputy Governor of the performing Musicians Association of Nigeria, PMAN, Mr. Abiye Howells gave an assurance that PMAN would continue to champion the fight against infringement on Intellectual Property in the country.
Earlier in his welcome address, the chairman of the occasion, Professor Onyi Nwamkpa commended NCC for the initiative and called for continuous sensitization on the Intellectual Property rights.
Some students in the Music Department of the University of Port Harcourt showcased their various talents in the musical world.
