AS the fight against book piracy intensifies, the Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC) has advised booksellers to resist the temptation to cut corners or engage in the illicit trade, informing them that more anti-piracy measures would be rolled out in the coming year to check infractions.
This was disclosed by the Director-General, NCC, Dr. John O. Asein, during a courtesy visit by officials of the Book and Stationery Union, Ariaria International Market, Aba on 30th September 2024.
Reiterating the Commission’s determination to reduce piracy, he informed the officials that the Commission has completed plans to introduce anti-piracy stamps and a pre-import notification system to guarantee safe corridors for books, check illicit imports and ease clearance of legitimate works. The DG also noted that the mandatory register of works under the Act as well as the nationwide documentation of production and sales outlet will be enforced. The documentation scheme would cover publishers, printers, booksellers, warehouse owners and schools engaged in the sale of books.
Justifying the introduction of the regulatory checks, Dr. Asein noted that the illicit business of piracy was getting more sophisticated hence the need to adopt multiprong strategies to combat it. He also warned owners of online sales platforms and vendors who clandestinely use these platforms to distribute pirated books to desist from such practice.
Addressing the DG during the visit, Chairman, Book and Stationery Union, Mr. Ugwonwa Ikechukwu expressed appreciation to the Commission for the enforcement measures introduced in the market which has helped to reduce the scourge of piracy. He stated that following their recent signing of an MoU with NCC, activities of pirates have reduced.
The meeting resolved to deepen collaboration and to work out modalities for a compliance inspection exercise at the market by the Commission.
Other officials of the Union in attendance were the Chief Taskforce Officer, Mr. Uzochukwu Orizu and former Chairman of the Union, Hon. Okeke Chigozie.
Amos Abutu
For: Director-General