Nigerian Government Warns: DJs Risk 5-Year Jail Term for Playing Songs Without License

The Nigerian Government has issued a stern warning to disc jockeys (DJs) across the country regarding the unauthorized use of music at events.

In an official statement released by the Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC) on Wednesday, DJs were cautioned against playing songs without proper licensing. The notice was communicated by the NCC’s Director-General, Dr. John Asein, during a briefing in Abuja.

According to the advisory, DJs found using music without obtaining the appropriate copyright licenses from the original rights owners or their legally recognized Collective Management Organisations (CMOs) may face legal consequences.

Dr. Asein explained that under Sections 9 and 12 of the Copyright Act of 2022, only the copyright holder has the exclusive authority to perform, reproduce, or publicly communicate their musical content.

He further clarified that when DJs perform music at locations like event venues, clubs, hotels, gardens, or entertainment centers, it qualifies as a public performance and communication to the public. Doing so without proper authorization directly violates the law.

“Infringement of this nature is regarded as either a civil offense or a criminal act as outlined in Section 44(7) of the Act,” he stated. “Anyone found guilty may be sentenced to five years in prison, fined ₦1 million, or receive both penalties,” Dr. Asein emphasized.