Broadcasting
Copyright Treaties Ratification will Advance the Nigerian Film Industry – NCC
The Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC) has assured stakeholders in the Nigerian Film Industry that the recent ratification of Copyright Treaties by the Commission offers great opportunities to the creative industries.
The ratified Treaties are the Performances and Phonograms Treaty (WPPT), WIPO Copyright Treaty (WCT), WIPO Treaty on Audio Visual Performances and the Marrakesh Treaty to facilitate access to published works for persons who are blind, visually impaired or otherwise print disabled.
Special Assistant to the Director-General, NCC and Director, Regulatory Department, Mr. Mike Akpan gave the assurance while representing the Commission, at a roundtable during the 35th Session of WIPO Standing Committee on Copyright and Related Rights in Geneva.
According to him, some of the benefits to be derived by the film industry from the ratification and eventual domestication of the treaties include: foreign investment in the industry, strengthening of contractual obligations beyond domestic borders and facilitating enhanced capacity of the industry through strategic intervention of Government.
In his presentation at the event, Mr. Mike Akpan provided a background to the Copyright Reforms of the Nigerian Copyright Commission and noted that the reform was necessitated by the need to strengthen the copyright and enforcement framework to enhance the competitiveness of the creative industries in the context of digital environment and knowledge based global economy.
The event themed “Developments in the Copyright field in Nigeria and their Potential Impact on the Growth of the Nigerian Film Industry” was organized by the International Federation of Film Producers’ Associations (FIAPF) in collaboration with the Permanent Mission of Nigeria to the United Nations.
The highly interactive meeting was centered on the recent decision by Nigeria to ratify the WIPO Copyright Treaties, the ongoing review of the copyright laws; and how to build new opportunities for funding, distributing Nigerian films and widen its international reach.
The Chairman of the event and Senior Advisor, FIAPF, Mr. Bertrand Moullier, a Senior Advisor, in his address also expressed optimism that Nigeria’s recent decision to ratify four major international copyright treaties will have a positive impact on the Nigerian Film Industry.
Mr. Moullier observed that the Nollywood, is one of the most prolific entertainment industry in the world, having in terms of volume production, the highest number of productions per year. He stressed that it is no doubt imperative that its creators and entrepreneurs now seek a stable system of regulation and legal incentives in order to take the dynamic sector to the next level of a major force in local job creation and GDP grower of the Country.
Discussing the Draft Copyright Bill, Professor, Bankole Sodipo noted that there are some remarkable improvement on the present Copyright Law, which includes the provision that captures, the right of Broadcasting for films, as well as the right of making available of films, these he said were in line with the provisions of the WCT and WPPT.
According to him, other similar provisions are on Technological Provision Measures as well as Rights Management Information, inclusion of a provision on transfer of rights of performers and the right to share in revenue for exploitation of their fixed performances. He also spoke on the expansion of exceptions and limitations which includes provision to grant access to works for the benefit of the blind and visually impaired persons.
Mr. Kunle Afolayan, a film Producer and Director, reacting to questions regarding the state of rights enforcement as part of domestic challenges, stated that the industry has had challenges of piracy, stressing that this hyped by inadequate enforcement mechanisms of the public agencies.
He however noted that with the current reform of the Nigerian Copyright Commission, and in particular the prospects of the new copyright law, the industry looks forward to a better reinforcement and rights protection regime.
Speaking at the event, the Permanent Representative of Nigeria to United Nations in Geneva, His Excellency Ambassador Audu A. Kadiri, appreciated the efforts of FIAPF and WIPO for creating a platform to discuss issues relating to Nigeria’s film industry.
He thanked all the participants and assured that the government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria is taking necessary steps to promote policies that will support and reposition the entire creative industry of the country.
Other presenters at the session include Mr. Tonye Princewill, a Port Harcourt based film Producer, Mr. Allain Modot, an International Film Distribution Agent, based in France and distinguished delegates from member states of WIPO as well as Senior Officials of WIPO.
House of Representatives has called on the Federal Government to enforce a minimum capital base of N500 billion for electricity distribution companies (DisCos) to continue operations.
The lawmakers argue that only financially robust DisCos can ensure efficient service delivery and maximum consumer satisfaction.
This resolution was passed during Wednesday’s plenary following a motion by Ibrahim Isiaka, a representative from Ogun State.
Isiaka criticized the current operations of DisCos, describing their actions as a threat to the economic stability and welfare of Nigerians.
He highlighted consumer complaints regarding the replacement of electricity meters, noting that DisCos often demand additional payments despite consumers already financing the installation of meters.
Isiaka expressed concern over the financial burden this places on households and businesses struggling with economic challenges.
The motion also raised issues of consumer trust, alleging that DisCos operate with impunity and disregard for consumer rights, despite oversight from the regulatory authorities and the House Committee on Power.
The lawmakers unanimously adopted the motion through a voice vote conducted by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas.
They urged the Ministry of Power to take immediate steps to address the “reckless actions” of DisCos, labeling them as non-state actors threatening Nigeria’s economy.
The House further mandated the recapitalization of DisCos to a minimum of N500 billion, insisting that only financially capable operators should be allowed to continue providing electricity services.
Additionally, the House Committee on Power was directed to investigate the activities of DisCos to ensure accountability and protect consumer rights.
Chinenye Anuforo, a distinguished journalist from The Sun Newspaper, has been recognized for her exceptional contributions to ICT journalism in Nigeria.
Chinenye Anuforo receiving the ATAEx Award presented by Mr. Gbolahan Awonuga, executive secretary of the Association of Licensed Telecoms Operators of Nigeria (ALTON)
Last week, she received the ICT Innovation Storyteller Award at the Africa Tech Alliance Excellence (ATAEx) Awards, celebrating her ability to craft compelling narratives that highlight the complexities and potential of the ICT sector.
“Chinenye’s dedication to her craft is evident in her insightful analysis and engaging storytelling,” said Mr. Chike Onwuegbuchi, co-convener of the ATAEx Awards.
“Her work has consistently illuminated the significant impact of technology on society, making her a deserving recipient of this award.”
The accolades continued as Anuforo was named the ICT Reporter of the Year at the Africa Digital Awards (ADA) just a week later.
This prestigious award further cements her status as a leading voice in the ICT industry.
Mr. Tayo Adewusi, Publisher/Coordinator of NIICF & ADA, who presented the award, praised Anuforo’s role in shaping public discourse on ICT issues.
“Her reports have not only informed but also inspired, making her a true champion of digital innovation,” he said.
Expressing her gratitude, Chinenye Anuforo stated, “I am deeply honored and humbled to receive these awards.
“I am grateful to my editors at The Sun Newspapers for their unwavering support and to the organizers of the ATAEx Awards and Africa Digital Awards for recognizing my work.
“It is a privilege to contribute to the growth of the ICT sector in Nigeria through journalism.”
Flymate Travel Limited, a pioneering travel solutions provider, has launched Visadoc, a cutting-edge travel app designed to streamline and enhance user experiences worldwide.
Visadoc simplifies Travel and enhancing convenience by empowering travelers to manage their journey from visa applications to booking accommodations and flights. Key features include:
– Seamless Visa Application Process: Easy application, documentation, and biometric scheduling
– Personalized Travel Recommendations: Tailored suggestions based on individual preferences
– Secure Electronic Payments: Convenient fee payments
– Real-time Travel Updates: Flight statuses, weather conditions, and travel advisories
Gbenga Badmus, CEO of Flymate Travel Limited, speaking at the launch on wednesday, explained that Visadoc is designed to offer customized services to the end users.
According to him, “Visadoc is designed to offer customized services to the end users. With its help, applicants can apply with ease by doing it themselves end to end.
“By completing the documentation process and waiting for the biometric capturing invite. Without putting a physical face to the agent’s office”.
Visadoc is available for download on the App Store and Google Play Store. The app is designed to cater to a wide range of travelers, including families, individuals, and business professionals.
“Families, Individuals with their specific needs and preferences, are an essential target audience for travel brands. Family travelers look for visas to destinations and accommodations that cater to the interests and safety of their children. They prioritize family-friendly activities, spacious accommodations, and convenient amenities,” said Abdullahi Yusuf, Project Manager at Flymate Travel Limited.
The target markets for a public travel tracking app can include frequent travelers, commuters, tourists, and individuals who must obtain their visa.
Flymate Travel Limited is committed to leveraging technology to enhance the travel experience and provide exceptional customer service. By utilizing data and user feedback, the company will continue to refine and improve the app to meet the evolving needs of travelers.
For more information about Flymate Travel Limited Contact:
Gbenga Badmus (CEO/MD) – [email protected], 07044132787
Abdullahi Yusuf (Project Manager) – [email protected], 08160253848
Eseigbe Godwin (Software Engineer) – [email protected], 09057379300
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