NBFT, NPA laud President Buhari for signing Copyright bill into law

 

NBFT, NPA LAUD PRESIDENT BUHARI FOR SIGNING COPYRIGHT BILL INTO LAW

By Wole Adedoyin

 

The Nigerian Book Fair Trust (NBFT) and the Nigerian Publishers Association (NPA) have both praised President Muhammadu Buhari for signing into law the Copyright Bill, which provides for the regulation, protection, and administration of copyright. This new legislation is a landmark initiative that offers significant leeway in the continuing drive to protect the intellectual property of Nigerian creative sector players, of which the book ecosystem features most prominently.

The NBFT and the NPA in different statements issued by their Presidents, Dare Oluwatuyi

Chairman, Nigerian Book Fair Trust and Uchenna Cyril Anioke  President/Chairman-in- Council, Nigerian Publishers Association (NPA) have both noted the great potential of the new law to promote the climate for innovation overall, as well as boost the capacity of the book trade to contribute even greater volumes of revenue and lawful employment to the Nigerian economy and for Nigerians. According to them, the new law also lays the groundwork for the restoration and improvement of the image of Nigeria as a nation that is demonstrably desirous of improving its copyright climate.

The new law is also expected to encourage more foreign investments in the creative industry even as it enhances the country's international reputation. Both The NPA and NBTF commended the Minister of Justice and Attorney-General of the Federation, Mr. Abubakar Malami, SAN, the Director General of the Nigerian Copyright Commission, Dr. John Asein, and the National Assembly for their roles in ensuring the passage of the bill.

The signing of the bill has been described as a significant milestone in the efforts to protect the rights of authors and ensure just rewards and recognition for their intellectual efforts, provide appropriate limitations and exceptions to guarantee access to creative works, and expand the rights of authors while raising the sanctions for criminal infringements.

The NBFT and the NPA have pledged their support for all efforts geared towards the successful implementation of the new law and affirm that all of their constituent member groups would do likewise. They have appealed to all and sundry to support this initiative for the betterment of all and also appealed to book pirates to desist from their nefarious acts, as it would not be business as usual for them, with this new Copyright Amendment Bill.

The signing of the Copyright Bill is a significant step towards strengthening the copyright regime in Nigeria, and it is expected to provide greater protection to creators and investors in the creative sector. The NBFT and the NPA have both expressed hope that this gesture would have a positive impact on the country's economy, and they have urged all stakeholders to work together to ensure that the law is effectively implemented.