Protecting Copyright Through Structure and Transparency
On January 28, 2025, the Collective Management Regulations, 2025 came into force in Nigeria under the authority of the Copyright Act, 2022. These landmark regulations, issued by the Nigerian Copyright Commission, introduce a robust legal and operational framework for Collective Management Organizations (CMOs)—entities licensed to manage rights and royalties on behalf of copyright owners.
What Are Collective Management Organizations?
CMOs act as intermediaries between copyright holders (such as musicians, writers, filmmakers) and users of creative works (like broadcasters, event organizers, digital platforms). Their role includes licensing, royalty collection, and distribution, along with offering legal support and member benefits.
Key Provisions of the Regulations
Approval and Supervision Any company seeking to operate as a CMO must be formally approved by the Commission. The application must include corporate documents, signed consent from at least 100 rights holders, and conflict-of-interest safeguards. Approvals are valid for five years, renewable every three years.
Transparency and Accountability CMOs are required to:
Fair Treatment of Rights Holders Every member has voting rights, access to financial and governance information, and the ability to withdraw membership. CMOs must ensure fair distribution based on actual usage of works, not exceeding 30% of royalties as administrative costs (except with Commission approval).
Relationship with Users and Other CMOs CMOs must provide users with accessible licensing terms and tariffs. They can form reciprocal representation agreements with local or international CMOs. Disputes are subject to the Commission’s Dispute Resolution Panel.
Ethical Conduct and Sanctions The Regulations outlaw several unethical practices—like licensing works outside one’s repertoire or withholding data from members. Non-compliance attracts administrative fines ranging from ₦200,000 to ₦500,000, and daily penalties for continued breaches.
Why These Regulations Matter
The Collective Management Regulations, 2025 represent a significant stride towards:
Professionalizing the copyright sector.
Restoring trust between creators, CMOs, and users.
Ensuring transparent royalty collection and disbursement.
Attracting investment and international cooperation in Nigeria’s creative industry.
For creators, these Regulations offer protection, fair remuneration, and a say in how their rights are administered. For users, they provide clarity and legal certainty when licensing content.
Conclusion
The Nigerian creative economy is growing, and the Collective Management Regulations, 2025 ensure that this growth is grounded in fairness, professionalism, and accountability. By strengthening CMOs, Nigeria safeguards its creators and affirms its place in the global copyright landscape.