NCC Warns DJs Against Unlicensed Music Use: Up to 5 Years in Jail or ₦1M Fine

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NCC Issues Legal Warning to DJs Over Unauthorized Music Use

The Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC) has issued a strong warning to disc jockeys (DJs) across the country: stop playing copyrighted music in public without proper licensing—or face legal consequences.

In a statement released on Wednesday in Abuja, NCC Director-General John Asein highlighted a growing trend of DJs performing songs in clubs, events, and public spaces without authorization from approved copyright bodies.

“Engaging in any of these acts without the owner’s authorisation constitutes an infringement under the Act,” he said, citing Sections 9 and 12 of the Copyright Act, 2022 .

He reminded all DJs that copyright owners have exclusive rights to reproduce, perform, or broadcast their work—and violating this law comes with serious penalties.


Heavy Penalties for Unlicensed Public Performances

According to the NCC, DJs who play music publicly without permission risk:

  • A fine of at least ₦1 million
  • A five-year prison sentence
  • Or both

This applies to all types of public performances—whether at parties, nightclubs, weddings, or radio stations.

Asein stressed that unauthorized use of music not only harms creators but also undermines the creative economy.

“This is not a grey area,” he emphasized.
“The rules are clear, the mechanisms are in place, and the consequences are real.”


How DJs Can Legally Play Music

To avoid legal trouble, the NCC urged DJs to obtain the necessary licenses through Musical Copyright Society Nigeria (MCSN) —the only approved collective management organization (CMO) for musical works and sound recordings in Nigeria.

Additionally, the Disc Jockey Association of Nigeria (DJAN) has signed a partnership agreement with MCSN to help members pay royalties based on agreed tariffs.

This makes it easier for DJs to comply with the law while protecting the rights of artists and producers.


Call to Action: Stay Legal, Stay Safe

If you’re a DJ or event organizer, make sure your performances are fully licensed. Support Nigerian creatives by paying royalties through MCSN and registering with DJAN for simplified compliance.


Call to Action: Share Your Thoughts!

What do you think about the NCC’s warning to DJs? Is this a necessary step toward protecting Nigerian artists?

💬 Leave a comment below and join the conversation.

📢 Don’t forget to share this article to spread awareness about music licensing and copyright protection in Nigeria.

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