The impact of technology and the use of the internet on copyright enforcement in Nigeria

Abstract

The enforcement of copyright, like every other proprietary right, is of great importance in every society. This is because it makes it possible for creators to reap the economic benefits accruing from the works they have created and in turn, gives them the motivation to create more. Among the problems of lack of funds, corruption, poverty, and inefficient enforcement mechanisms, and others, confronting the Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC), the advent of the internet and digital revolution has posed even more severe challenges to enforcement. Due to the internet and modern technology, it has become easier and faster for a person to gain access to copyrighted works even to the detriment of the right owners. This research examines the extent to which modern technology and the internet have impacted the enforcement of copyright in Nigeria. The research finds that the long lasting-rule concerning copyright protection has been distorted by digital technology and the internet which have defied the traditional Copyright Enforcement Mechanisms. The situation is exacerbated by the state of the laws on copyright enforcement. Though the Copyright Act 2022 has introduced some measures to protect works that are published on the internet, it is still fraught with so many lacunae and far from meeting up with the demands of this internet age with regards to enforcement. The research recommends, among others; the employment by right owners, of some Digital Right Management measures such as encryption and watermarking; and more legislative action to make room for efficient enforcement by both NCC and the Courts.