Movie producers join WIPO, NCC to fight Nollywood piracy

L-R: Publicity Secretary, Association of Movie Producers (FCT), Desmond Utomwen, Chairman Emeritus, AMP-FCT, Imaobong Abia, Director of the WIPO Nigeria Office, Oluwatobiloba Moody, National President, AMP, Queen Ebigieson and Chairman, AMP Niger State, Johnpaul Umoru at the NCC, WIPO strategic parlay on fight against online piracy

From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja

The Association of Movie Producers of Nigeria (AMP) has partnered with the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO) and the Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC) to tackle online piracy threatening Nollywood and Nigeria’s creative industry.

The collaboration was launched at a high-profile meeting at the Bank of Industry Tower in Abuja, as part of a WIPO-supported project to combat digital piracy across Africa.

Desmond Utomwen, AMP Publicity Secretary (FCT), announced the initiative, which involves stakeholders from Nigeria’s creative sectors. Nigeria is one of four African countries selected for this effort to strengthen copyright laws, enhance enforcement, and raise public awareness about digital copyright infringement.

“This is a strategic intervention that will reposition Nigeria’s copyright ecosystem in the digital age,” said NCC Director-General John Asein, emphasising the need to address technical and legal gaps to protect creatives.

WIPO Nigeria Office Director Oluwatobiloba Moody reaffirmed WIPO’s commitment, stating, “The project reflects WIPO’s deepening collaboration with African countries and shared determination to defend the rights of creators in the digital space.”

AMP National President Queen Ebigieson described it as a turning point for Nollywood, which has faced “economic losses, reputational damage, and creative fatigue due to online piracy”. She added, “The project will provide legal backing, technical tools, and enforcement partnerships needed to finally push back.”

Ebigieson urged inclusive advocacy to ensure grassroots filmmakers and digital content creators benefit, noting, “The strength of Nollywood lies in its diversity and reach.” The meeting featured presentations from WIPO expert Dr Tobias Bednarz on the project framework, Nigerian IP expert Michael Akpan on local infringement trends, and international consultant Dr Ioannis Kikkis on digital enforcement mechanisms.

The initiative unites law enforcement, telecommunications companies, legal experts, and creative associations for a sector-wide response. It builds on NCC’s ongoing efforts, including cooperation with the National Film and Video Censors Board and advanced enforcement strategies. Asein reiterated, “No agency can fight piracy alone,” highlighting the need for joint operations.

Nollywood, Africa’s largest film industry and the world’s third-largest by production volume, stands to benefit significantly. Strengthening copyright protection will ensure fair compensation for filmmakers, supporting the creative economy’s growth, valued at N1.4 trillion in 2024.