Nigerian Copyright Commission Warns DJs Against Unauthorized Use of Music or Risk N1M Fine

The Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC) has issued a strong warning to DJs across the country, cautioning them against playing or remixing copyrighted music in public without obtaining proper authorization or licenses.

According to the Commission, any DJ found guilty of violating this directive faces severe penalties, including a fine of up to ₦1 million, a five-year prison sentence, or both. The warning is part of the NCC’s broader effort to enforce the Copyright Act 2022 and protect the rights of music creators.

The Commission is working closely with the Deejays Association of Nigeria (DJAN), as well as Collective Management Organizations like the Copyright Society of Nigeria (COSON) and the Musical Copyright Society of Nigeria (MCSN), to ensure DJs understand and comply with copyright laws.

DJs are encouraged to obtain public performance licenses from the relevant bodies and participate in upcoming training sessions being organized by MCSN to educate DJs on copyright compliance and enforcement. The NCC also revealed that routine inspections will soon be carried out at event venues to monitor adherence to the law.

This move aims to ensure that artists, producers, and other rights holders receive fair compensation for the use of their creative works, while fostering a culture of respect for intellectual property in Nigeria’s music industry.