Piracy stifling innovation and Nigeria’s creative economy, says John Asein

John Asein, director general of the Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC), says piracy is destroying Nigeria’s creative economy.

Asein spoke on Tuesday during a sensitisation programme on the Copyright Act for teachers in Osun.

The NCC DG, represented by Oluropo Oke, the state coordinator of the commission in Ibadan, said piracy not only fuels the circulation of substandard goods but also robs creators of their income.

He said piracy, whether through unauthorised reproduction of books, films, music, digital content, or educational materials, deprives creators of their due reward and undermines the quality of resources.

Asein added that the Copyright Act, 2022 provides protection for intellectual property and punishes violators.

He also said under the copyright Act, anyone selling or buying pirated materials would, upon conviction, be liable to a fine, imprisonment, or both.

“Piracy is the unauthorised duplication or exhibition of original works for commercial gain without the consent of the right holder,” he said.

The DG noted that no one should be allowed to “steal” or exploit another person’s intellectual labour without permission.

“It is crucial to understand that the fight against piracy is not the sole responsibility of the Nigerian Copyright Commission or law enforcement agencies alone,” Asein added.

“It is a collective duty that begins with awareness and personal commitment. As teachers, you have a unique and powerful influence over the next generation.

“Your role goes beyond classroom instruction; you are custodians of intellectual integrity and models for the respect of ideas, innovations, and creative works.

“By modelling respect for intellectual property and teaching students to value originality, you instil values that will shape a society where creativity is protected, rewarded, and sustained.

“Piracy may seem like a ‘quick fix’ for access to materials, but its long-term effects are deeply damaging. It discourages authors, publishers, and innovators, erodes the quality of educational resources, and weakens the creative economy.”

Asein added that the NCC will continue its enforcement drive to rid the country of piracy.