The Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC) has issued a stern warning to disc jockeys (DJs) across the country, cautioning against the public performance of music without proper licensing. This advisory highlights the legal implications of such actions under the Copyright Act, 2022.
In an official statement released on Wednesday in Abuja, NCC Director-General Dr. John Asein emphasized that playing music publicly without obtaining the necessary licenses from rights holders or their authorized Collective Management Organizations (CMOs) constitutes a violation of the law.
Such infringements may result in severe penalties, including a fine of at least ₦1 million, imprisonment for a term of not less than five years, or both.
Dr. Asein clarified that public performances by DJs at venues such as hotels, clubs, event centers, and recreational spots are considered both public performances and communications to the public under the law. Therefore, DJs are required to obtain appropriate licenses and pay royalties through the approved CMO, the Musical Copyright Society Nigeria (MCSN).
To facilitate compliance, the Disc Jockeys Association of Nigeria (DJAN) has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding with MCSN. This agreement allows DJAN to assist its members in securing the necessary licenses and ensuring adherence to the established tariff rates.
The NCC has expressed its commitment to enforcing these regulations and has indicated plans to collaborate with relevant authorities to investigate and prosecute any DJs found to be in violation of the law. This initiative aims to protect the rights of music creators and promote a culture of respect for intellectual property within Nigeria's music industry.
For more information on obtaining the required licenses, DJs are encouraged to contact the Musical Copyright Society Nigeria (MCSN) or the Disc Jockeys Association of Nigeria (DJAN).