AS the Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC) intensifies its public awareness campaign, school proprietors in the FCT have been advised to exercise due diligence by procuring books from legitimate sources to curb copyright infringement and help sanitise the book value chain.

This was disclosed by the Director Operations, NCC, Mr. Emeka Ogbonna in his address at the General Meeting of National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools (NAPPS), FCT held at Veritas University, Abuja on 9th October, 2024.

Speaking to the participants, Mr. Ogbonna acknowledged the contributions of the proprietors to the educational development of the nation, emphasising the need for wholesome practices to protect the book ecosystem. ‘’If you must sell or distribute books, ensure you get them from the right sources”, he cautioned.

He said the warning was imperative in view of complaints from right owners and publishers about schools selling pirated books. He stated that the NCC is not opposed to schools selling books, but maintained that due diligence must be exercised by ensuring that all purchased books are properly documented with authentic receipts.

Sensitising the school proprietors further on the tenets of the new Copyright Act 2022, the Director said it is a criminal offence to sell, distribute or be in possession, other than for private or domestic use, works that are pirated. Harping on the stiffer punishments prescribed for offenders by the new Act, he said schools selling or distributing books will be treated as booksellers and subject to the same standard of care.

The NAPPS FCT President, Mrs. Ruth Agboola, commended the NCC and other government agencies in attendance and lauded the Management of Veritas University for hosting the event.

The meeting was also attended by the Vice-Chancellor, Veritas University, Abuja, Rev. Fr. (Prof) Hyacinth E. Ichoku and other officials of the University.

Amos Abutu

For: Director-General