Nigeria’s creative industry just hit a massive milestone! After decades of sitting on the shelf, the country’s copyright levy framework has finally moved from “paper” to “payment.”
In a historic move, the Performing Musicians’ Employers Association of Nigeria (PMAN) and the Musical Copyright Society Nigeria (MCSN) have successfully triggered the implementation of the law. PMAN President, Pretty Okafor, recently announced that ₦1.2 billion has been disbursed under Section 89 of the Copyright Act 2022. Here’s everything you need to know about the recent landmark announcement at the Nigerian Music House in Lekki.
1. What is the Copyright Levy?
The copyright levy is a system designed to compensate creators when their works are used or copied. Although this framework was first introduced in 1988, it remained dormant for 35 years. Thanks to the Copyright Act of 2022 and the persistent efforts of PMAN and MCSN, the government has finally begun active implementation.
2. The Billion-Naira Milestone
At a recent press conference, PMAN President Pretty Okafor revealed that the first tranche of the levy totaling ₦1.2 billion has been released. This money is earmarked for musical works and sound recordings, marking a transition from “good intentions” to “practical benefits.”
3. Why This Copyright Levy Matters for You
If you make music in Nigeria, then this money matters and is for you. Whether you are a songwriter, composer, performer, producer, publisher, independent artiste, or record label – these are the things you stand to benefit from this levy.
- Direct Support: The funds are intended to reach creators at the grassroots level, helping to lift musicians out of poverty.
- Industry Structure: This move strengthens the “Renewed Hope” agenda for the creative sector, making the industry a more viable economic powerhouse.
- Transparency: PMAN is committed to ensuring that these funds are disbursed clearly and accountably to the rightful owners.
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4. A United Front
The success of this disbursement is the result of a coordinated effort between PMAN (the union representing performers and employers) and MCSN (the collective management organization). By working together, they have ensured that the Nigerian music industry is finally catching up with global best practices.
What’s Next for Creators?
This is more than just a news headline; it’s a victory for every artist, producer, and songwriter in Nigeria. As Pretty Okafor puts it, this is a “landmark moment” that will reshape the creative economy for generations to come.
With this structural shift, the focus now moves to registration and verification. Musicians are encouraged to ensure they are properly registered with the relevant bodies to benefit from this and future disbursements.
Do you think this ₦1.2 billion disbursement will finally put an end to the “starving artist” struggle in Nigeria, or is there still more the government needs to do for the creative sector?
A New Era for Nigerian Music – The ₦1.2 Billion Copyright Levy Breakthrough
