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Copyright Registration in Nigeria: A Complete 2025 Guide

  • Writer: Damilola Fadumila
    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 In Nigeria, this right is governed by the Copyright Act 2022, and covers both published and unpublished works.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)

📌 Subscribe to our blog for regular updates on Nigerian intellectual property law, brand protection, digital rights, and more.👉 Explore More Blog Posts

 
 
 
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