NCC Cautions DJs Against Playing Songs Without License

The Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC) has issued a warning to Disc Jockeys (DJs) across the country to stop playing other people’s music in public places without getting proper permission.

This warning came on Wednesday in Abuja through an advisory from the Director-General of the NCC, Dr. John Asein. He explained that the commission had received complaints about DJs playing music at events, clubs, hotels, and recreational centres without securing a copyright license from the original creators or their recognised representatives.

He explained that under the Copyright Act of 2022, only the rightful owner of a musical work or sound recording has the right to play it in public, make copies, or share it with the public. Without permission, any public use of such works is seen as breaking the law. DJs who go ahead to use music without getting the required approval may be taken to court, fined a minimum of one million naira, or jailed for at least five years. In some cases, they could face both penalties.

The commission reminded DJs that any music played in public, whether at an event, a hotel, or a club, counts as a public performance and sharing of that music with the public. This means it falls under the protection of the Copyright Act and requires permission from the rightful owners.

To avoid breaking the law, DJs are advised to obtain the correct licenses and pay royalties to the registered Collective Management Organisation (CMO). In Nigeria, the approved CMO handling music and sound recordings is the Musical Copyright Society of Nigeria (MCSN).

It was also noted that the Disc Jockey’s Association of Nigeria (DJAN), the group that represents DJs in the country, has already signed an agreement with MCSN. This deal allows DJAN to work with MCSN to ensure DJs across Nigeria pay the required royalties, based on an agreed rate.

The NCC made it clear that it will now begin working closely with other authorities to ensure DJs follow the rules. Those who fail to comply may face investigation, arrest, and legal action.