Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has urged stakeholders in Africa's creative sector to join forces in combating piracy. His appeal was made during the 12th edition of the Africa Magic Viewers' Choice Awards (AMVCA) held in Lagos. He warned that unchecked intellectual property theft could erode the economic gains of the creative industry. Speaking to filmmakers, actors, producers and directors, Sanwo-Olu stated that creative excellence would mean little if creators were deprived of financial rewards. "All of the great work you are all doing will amount to nothing if we let piracy take shine out of all of this," he said.
Sanwo-Olu highlighted the growing global influence of African film, music and digital content. He stressed that piracy continues to drain revenue, discourage investment and threaten the sustainability of the sector. The governor emphasized that African creativity must translate into economic prosperity for artists and practitioners. "We need to kill piracy in whatever form, shape, because we want you all to be economically sound, have the full benefit, as well as full economic benefit of your sweat," he said. The statement was later confirmed by the Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC) in a release issued Sunday in Abuja by its Director of Public Affairs, Ijeoma Egbunike.
NCC Director-General Dr John Asein echoed the governor's position. He reiterated that piracy endangers creativity and the livelihoods of those who produce content. Asein affirmed the NCC's commitment to protecting creators and creative enterprises. He said the strongest defence against piracy is a shared culture of copyright respect. He urged all stakeholders to reject piracy and copyright abuse in all forms. The anti-piracy messages at AMVCA underscored the importance of copyright protection for the growth and economic future of Africa's creative industries.
Sanwo-Olu demands an end to piracy while his state remains a known hub for illicit disc sales and streaming platforms. The governor's call rings hollow when open markets in Lagos continue to operate with impunity. Creators in the industry hear promises, but see no action against the networks thriving under his watch. His appeal for economic justice for artists ignores the enforcement failures in his own jurisdiction.
Editorial note: AI-assisted opinion, not established fact. Full disclaimer →
