The Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC) has cautioned artists against the use of vulgar and abusive language in their music, urging them instead to explore opportunities to earn legitimate income through royalties.
Speaking at a stakeholders’ enlightenment programme held in Kaduna to commemorate World Intellectual Property (WIPO) Day, the Director General of NCC, Dr. John O. Asein, stressed the importance of intellectual property rights in helping artists gain recognition and financial reward for their creations.
Dr. Asein, represented by the NCC Kaduna State Coordinator, Rukayya Yeldu, said, “Having intellectual property protection over your works is critical. It enables you to earn from what you create, and it is the only way you can rightfully claim ownership and receive royalties.”
The forum brought together key industry players, including representatives from the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) and the Music Copyright Society of Nigeria (MCSN).
The Zonal Director of NBC, Alhaji Jamilu Yahaya Jega, in his remarks, appealed to artists to use their music to promote peace, family values, and social cohesion. He warned against the increasing trend of indecent and inciteful content, noting that the commission would not hesitate to take down any material deemed to undermine societal values.
“We expect artists to contribute positively to nation-building through their craft. Any song that promotes immorality or incitement will face regulatory action,” Jega said.
Also speaking, the Head of MCSN Kaduna Centre, Moses Moke, advised artists to register with the society to enable the recovery of royalties due to them. He lamented that no Nigerian broadcasting station had paid tariffs to the NBC, stressing that without proper registration, artists risked losing out on significant earnings.
Moke further encouraged self-censorship, reminding artists that maintaining clean and socially responsible content would enhance their marketability and long-term success.
The event was part of ongoing efforts by the NCC to educate creatives on the economic benefits of protecting their intellectual property and promoting responsible artistic expression.