Copyright Registration in Nigeria: A Complete 2025 Guide
- Damilola Fadumila
- Jun 18
- 3 min read
Updated: Jun 20
By the Intellectual Property Team at O.I.D. Legal Consult
In today’s fast-moving creative and digital economy, copyright registration in Nigeria is a vital step for anyone creating original work—whether it's a song, book, software, artwork, or film. While copyright protection is automatic, formal registration with the Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC) provides stronger legal safeguards, particularly in cases of infringement.
This guide explains everything you need to know about copyright law in Nigeria, how to register your work, and why it matters for long-term protection.
🧠 What is Copyright?
Copyright is a legal right that gives creators of original works exclusive control over how their work is used, shared, or monetized. In Nigeria, this right is governed by the Copyright Act 2022, and covers both published and unpublished works.
Upon creation, copyright automatically vests in the creator. However, registration offers additional legal strength when asserting your rights—especially in court or cross-border scenarios.
📋 Works Eligible for Copyright Protection in Nigeria
Under Nigerian copyright law, the following categories of work are protected:
Literary works – books, articles, essays, scripts
Artistic works – paintings, illustrations, sculptures, photographs
Musical compositions – including lyrics and notations
Cinematographic films – movies, animations, video content
Sound recordings – studio recordings, audio works
Broadcasts – radio and television transmissions
These works must be original and tangibly expressed, meaning an idea alone is not protected unless it’s been recorded, written, or fixed in a perceivable format.
✅ Why Register Your Copyright in Nigeria?
Although copyright is automatic, registration with the Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC) provides several valuable advantages:
📑 Legal Evidence of Ownership
A certificate of registration is strong prima facie evidence in court that you are the rightful owner of the work.
⚖️ Right to Enforce & Sue
Only registered owners can file lawsuits for copyright infringement, seek damages, or pursue injunctions.
🚫 Public Notice to Infringers
Registration makes your ownership publicly visible, helping deter unauthorized use.
🌍 International Recognition
With registration, your work may qualify for protection in other countries that are parties to international treaties like the Berne Convention.
📝 Steps to Register Copyright in Nigeria (2025)
1. Confirm Eligibility
Ensure that your work qualifies as a protectable category under the Copyright Act.
2. Prepare Your Work
Compile the final version of your work (e.g., document, audio file, artwork, or video).
3. Download & Fill the NCC Form
Visit the official Nigerian Copyright Commission website to obtain the registration form or pick one up at any NCC office.
4. Submit Application
Submit the completed form along with:
Copies of the work
A valid means of identification
Payment of the official registration fee
5. Processing Period
Processing may take up to 6 weeks. The NCC will review your application to ensure all requirements are met.
6. Receive Certificate of Registration
Once approved, you’ll receive an official copyright certificate, which can be used in court and for enforcement purposes.
⏳ Duration of Copyright Protection in Nigeria
Type of Work | Duration of Protection |
Literary, Musical, Artistic Works | Lifetime of the author + 70 years after death |
Cinematographic Works & Photographs | 50 years from the year of publication/creation |
Sound Recordings | 50 years from the year of public release |
Broadcasts | 50 years from the first year of transmission |
After these terms expire, the work enters the public domain and can be freely used by anyone.
⚠️ Common Copyright Violations to Watch For
Unauthorized copying, publishing, or performance
Commercial use of content without permission
Uploading works to digital platforms without attribution
Remixing or adapting work without a license
If you’ve registered your work, you’ll have stronger legal standing to issue cease-and-desist letters, claim compensation, or take infringers to court.
💬 FAQs on Copyright in Nigeria
Q: Is registration compulsory to own copyright?A: No. But registration offers legal proof of ownership and makes enforcement easier.
Q: Can I register software or digital works?A: Yes. Software, websites, mobile apps, and digital content qualify under literary or artistic works.
Q: Can I register a copyright online?A: The NCC does not yet support full online filing, but downloadable forms are available on their official site.
🎯 Conclusion
Whether you're a writer, artist, musician, filmmaker, or software developer, protecting your intellectual property is essential. While copyright automatically applies, formal registration through the Nigerian Copyright Commission ensures that your rights are recognized, enforceable, and secure—both locally and internationally.
At Resolution Law Firm, we specialize in copyright registration, enforcement, licensing, and IP litigation. Let us help you secure what you’ve created.
📞 Get Legal Help on Copyright Registration Today
Reach out to our IP team for swift and reliable assistance:
📧 oidlegal@outlook.com📱 +2348168868476 (Call or WhatsApp)
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