In a bold move to protect intellectual property rights and enforce copyright laws, the Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC) has issued a stern warning to disc jockeys (DJs) across the country.
Announced via the official Nigerian Stories X (formerly Twitter) handle, the Commission emphasized that DJs who publicly perform music without securing proper licenses or obtaining permission from the original creators are violating copyright laws — and will face serious legal consequences.
According to the NCC, any DJ caught in the act will be liable to a hefty fine of ₦1 million or risk serving up to 5 years in prison.
The Commission’s crackdown is part of an aggressive nationwide campaign to clamp down on music piracy and protect the rights of Nigerian artists, producers, and record labels who often suffer financial losses due to unauthorized use of their work.
“This is not a drill,” the Commission warned. “The era of freely spinning other people’s music in clubs, parties, and public events without proper authorization is over.”
The move has sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry, with many DJs, event organizers, and venue owners now scrambling to understand the implications and ensure compliance.
Legal experts and music stakeholders have hailed the decision as long overdue, calling it a necessary step toward building a thriving, respectful, and sustainable creative industry in Nigeria.
As the crackdown begins, the Commission urges DJs and event planners to register, obtain performance licenses, and respect the intellectual property of Nigerian and international artists.
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