THE Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC) has signed a tripartite agreement with Nigerian Publishers Association (NPA) and Booksellers Association of Nigeria (BAN) to sanitise the book distribution chain and encourage creatives and investors in Anambra State and environs.
NCC State Coordinator, Onitsha Office, Mr. Gabriel Anikwem, who disclosed this noted that the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and presentation of Good Leadership Award to the Director-General, NCC, Dr. John O. Asein, took place during a Copyright Industry Stakeholders Meeting held in Onitsha, on 11th November 2022.
According to him, the Director, Operations, Mr. Obi Ezeilo signed the MoU on behalf the Director-General, Dr. John O. Asein; while the Deputy National Chairman of NPA, Mr. Augustine Onwubiko and Chairman, BAN, Onitsha, Chief Ben Ukpaka signed on behalf of NPA and BAN, respectively.
The NCC State Coordinator noted that the agreement was also aimed at checking the incidence of piracy, other copyright infringements, and to ensure that only genuine literary works were displayed for sale or use in the various markets and schools in the State.
Meanwhile the BAN Executives have conferred a Good Leadership Award on the DG, NCC, Dr. Asein in appreciation of his contribution to strengthening the copyright ecosystem.
The State Coordinator explained that BAN and NPA also agreed to collaborate with the Commission and the various market taskforces in carrying out copyright raids where and when necessary.
He noted that while receiving the Award on behalf of DG, NCC, Mr. Ezeilo thanked the stakeholders for the recognition and urged them to continue partnership with the Commission in its efforts to reposition the copyright ecosystem for the better.
The State Coordinator revealed that the Director, Operations, had earlier held a meeting with the operatives of NCC Onitsha Office, where he appreciated them and encouraged them to be more dedicated to their duties.
Other participants at the meeting were an NCC Board Member, Dr. (Sir). Jesse Odu; Special Assistant to DG, NCC, Mr. Joni Icheka, and other stakeholders including the Secretary, BAN, Mr. Chinyere Chigbo.
