In these times when copyright protection has become a major issue in the music industry, the announcement of the imminent opening of a branch of the Musical Copyright Society Nigeria Ltd/Gte (MCSN) in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital, has elicited positive reactions from various stakeholders in the cultural industry. During a visit by a delegation of MCSN to the former Director General of the Nigerian Copyright Commission, Dr. Moses Ekpo at his residence in Abak, the excitement was palpable.
The presence of key MCSN personalities such as the CEO of the Society, Mr. Mayo Ayilaran, the Director General (Licensing Operations), Mr. Louis Udoh, the National Law Enforcement Consultant, Mr. Obi Ezeilo and the MCSN State Consultant, Dr. Unwana Ibanga, underscores the strategic importance of the opening of this branch. The support of Dr. Moses Ekpo, also a former Deputy Governor of the state, was warmly expressed, highlighting the history and evolution of the copyright system in Nigeria.
Highlighting MCSN’s commitment to ensuring that creators benefit from their intellectual property rights, Dr. Ekpo commended the transparency and accountability of the society. He stressed the importance of MCSN reaching out to the real stakeholders in the music industry, creators and consumers, and encouraged it to continue its expansion across Nigeria to strengthen effective copyright administration at the national level. This ambitious initiative illustrates MCSN’s continued commitment to protecting the interests of creators and fostering an enabling environment for artistic and musical creation.
The upcoming opening of the MCSN branch in Uyo sends a strong signal of the importance given to copyright protection in Akwa Ibom State and opens new avenues for players in the local music industry. At a time when creativity and innovation are at the heart of the digital economy, it is essential to support initiatives aimed at protecting and promoting the work of artists and creators. MCSN’s presence in Uyo is a testament to its commitment to actively contribute to the evolution of Nigeria’s cultural and musical landscape, by ensuring fair remuneration for artists and recognition of their essential contribution to our society.
In conclusion, MCSN’s initiative to open a branch in Uyo is a significant step towards more effective copyright management and increased support for artists in Nigeria. This commitment to protecting intellectual property is a crucial step towards building a stronger, more transparent and more equitable music sector for all.