Association of Movie Producers backs WIPO, NCC fight against Copyright Piracy

Stakeholders from across Nigeria’s creative industry has converged in Abuja for the official kick-off meeting of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO)-supported project to develop strategies and tools to tackle online copyright piracy in the African digital market. Nigeria is one of only four African countries selected for this flagship initiative, which is aimed at […]

Stakeholders from across Nigeria’s creative industry has converged in Abuja for the official kick-off meeting of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO)-supported project to develop strategies and tools to tackle online copyright piracy in the African digital market.

Nigeria is one of only four African countries selected for this flagship initiative, which is aimed at strengthening legislative frameworks, building enforcement capacity, and raising public awareness around digital copyright infringement.

The project, implemented in collaboration with the Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC), comes at a critical time when Nigeria’s creative industries, particularly Nollywood, face mounting losses due to the proliferation of pirated content across digital platforms.

In his welcome address, Director-General of the NCC, Dr. John O. Asein, described the initiative as a strategic intervention that will reposition Nigeria’s copyright ecosystem in the digital age. He noted that by identifying technical and legal gaps and providing tools to disrupt online piracy, we are safeguarding the future of the creatives.

Also speaking at the event, Dr. Oluwatobiloba Moody, Director of the WIPO Nigeria Office, emphasised WIPO’s commitment to protecting intellectual property as a key driver of innovation and economic development.

He added that the project reflects WIPO’s deepening collaboration with African countries and shared determination to defend the rights of creators in the digital space.

Representing the Nigerian film industry, National President of the Association of Movie Producers of Nigeria, (AMP), Amb Queen Blessing Ebigieson, praised the initiative as a turning point for Nollywood producers who have long borne the brunt of digital piracy.

“For years, our industry has suffered economic losses, reputational damage, and creative fatigue due to online piracy. This project will equip producers with the legal backing, technical tools, and enforcement partnerships needed to finally push back,” Ebigieson said.

Ebigieson also highlighted the importance of sustained advocacy and industry collaboration.

“We must ensure that the awareness materials and capacity-building components of this project reach grassroots filmmakers and digital content creators, not just major studios. The strength of Nollywood lies in its diversity and reach.”