Crackdown on Digital Piracy
The Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC) has taken decisive action by suspending several .NG domains, including val9ja, tunesloaded, and music.360media, due to allegations of online piracy. The commission has confirmed that these platforms were actively involved in the widespread distribution of copyrighted sound recordings and other original works without proper authorization.
According to John Asein, the Director-General of the NCC, this enforcement action was initiated following a formal request from the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry (IFPI). The IFPI had reported that certain platforms were engaging in significant copyright infringement, particularly within the music industry. The NCC carried out this operation in close collaboration with the Nigerian Internet Registration Association (NiRA).
Asein stated that the Commission’s Special Taskforce against Online Piracy (STOP) verified that the targeted websites were engaged in blatant copyright infringement. These sites were illegally sharing unlicensed music and audiovisual works belonging to both Nigerian and international rights holders.
In addition to val9ja.com.ng, tunesloaded.com.ng, and music.360media.com.ng, the following platforms have also had their .NG domains taken offline:
- •toxniaja.com.ng
- •medianub.com.ng
- •naijalevels.com.ng
- •mp3juice.com.ng
The NCC emphasized that these piracy activities significantly undermine the efforts of legitimate digital platforms and result in substantial revenue losses for creators and investors. This intervention is a key component of the commission’s enforcement program, operating under the framework of the Copyright Act, 2022.
The Director-General further explained that the Copyright Act empowers the Commission to safeguard creators' rights and to investigate and curb all forms of online copyright violations. This includes actions against websites, streaming platforms, and other digital distribution channels.
Asein reiterated the commitment of the NCC and NiRA to ensure the swift suspension of any .ng domain found to be involved in piracy. He highlighted that these efforts are crucial for fostering a safe, lawful, and thriving digital environment for Nigeria’s creative economy.
Impact of Piracy on Nigerian Creative Industries
The piracy of music and movies through digital platforms poses a significant challenge to creators and producers worldwide, with the Nigerian film and music industry being a notable victim. Beyond the direct loss of revenue, this fraudulent activity discourages both local and foreign investment, as investors become hesitant to support projects that are unlikely to yield expected returns.
This recent action follows a previous intervention in July, where the Nigerian Copyright Commission, in partnership with NiRA, shut down MovieBox.ng. This website was widely recognized for streaming pirated films, music, and live sports. That action marked a significant milestone in the agency’s intensified fight against online piracy and was met with approval from rights holders across Nigeria’s film, music, and broadcast industries.
The current suspension of multiple domains sends a clear and strong message that the commission is proactively working to neutralize all forms of piracy within Nigeria.
In reaffirming the commission's dedication following the crackdown on online music platforms, Asein announced that the NCC will continue to intensify its online enforcement operations. He also urged the general public to report any suspicious platforms or online activities to the commission through the dedicated portal: stop.copyright.gov.ng.