Lagos, Nigeria — The National Association of Nigerian Theatre Arts Practitioners (NANTAP) has called for enhanced protection of performers’ rights under the new Copyright Act of 2022, as its four-day National Delegates Conference commenced in Lagos.
Delivering the keynote address, Director-General of the Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC), Dr. John Asein, emphasized the need for theatre practitioners to understand their intellectual property rights. He noted that copyright law grants creators exclusive control over their works, preventing unauthorized use.
Dr. Asein highlighted the impact of emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, on performing artists, stressing that copyright protection is more critical than ever. He underscored the importance of ensuring that performers retain control over how their content is reproduced, distributed, and monetized.
Reflecting on Nigeria’s copyright evolution, Dr. Asein paid tribute to Dr. Sylvester Olusola Agbaje-Williams and Chief Hubert Ogunde, pioneers in advocating for performers’ rights. He also announced plans to compile insights from the conference into a publication, Copyright and Theatre Arts, to further educate practitioners.
NANTAP President, Israel Eboh, in his welcome remarks, noted that the convention’s theme, Theatre, Politics, and National Development, highlights theatre’s role in shaping society. He emphasized NANTAP’s commitment to training practitioners through workshops, international collaborations, and mentorship programs.
Special Guest of Honour, Ireland’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Peter Ryan, described theatre as a powerful tool for societal change, capable of fostering consciousness and national development.
The conference featured cultural performances and panel discussions, including sessions on Insurance and Arts Funding Security by Leadway Assurance and Copyright Protection by the Nigerian Copyright Commission.
By Taiwo Olatinwo | February 22, 2025
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