The Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC) has taken decisive action against online piracy, securing the immediate suspension of several prominent .ng domain names involved in the unauthorized, large-scale distribution of copyrighted music and creative works.
The enforcement operation, carried out in cooperation with the Nigerian Internet Registration Association (NiRA), follows a formal complaint lodged by the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry (IFPI). The move is a significant victory for rights holders and a strong statement against digital theft in Nigeria’s creative space.
Piracy Sites Taken Offline
The domain names, which were confirmed by the NCC’s Special Taskforce against Online Piracy (STOP) to be engaging in blatant copyright infringement, have been taken offline through their respective registrars.
The suspended websites include:
• val9ja.com.ng
• tunesloaded.com.ng
• voxnaija.com.ng
• music.360media.com.ng
• medianub.com.ng
• naijalevels.com.ng
• mp3juice.com.ng
These platforms were found to be illegally sharing unlicensed sound recordings and audiovisual works, activities that severely undercut legitimate digital services and deprived both Nigerian and foreign creators and investors of their earned revenue.
Empowerment Under New Copyright Law
The NCC stated that this intervention is a key part of its robust enforcement program, leveraging the powers granted under the Copyright Act, 2022. The legislation empowers the Commission to investigate and curb all forms of online copyright violations across various digital distribution channels.
NCC Director-General, Dr. John Asein, reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to protecting the digital environment.
“The suspensions send a strong signal that Nigeria will not tolerate digital piracy,” stated Dr. Asein. “The Nigerian Copyright Commission remains vigilant and fully prepared to take decisive action against all forms of copyright infringement in order to safeguard Nigeria’s creative space and its digital future.”
Dr. Asein also extended appreciation to NiRA and the concerned Registrars for their collaboration, assuring rights holders that anti-piracy strategies will continue to be strengthened in partnership with national and international bodies.
The NCC continues to engage domain registrars to ensure the swift suspension of any .ng domain found to be in breach of copyright law, underscoring its commitment to fostering a lawful and thriving digital economy.
