The Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC) has called for stronger collaboration with law enforcement and regulatory agencies to combat copyright infringement, illicit trade and other violations of intellectual property rights in Anambra State.
The new Anambra State Commandant of the Commission, Mr Peter Edokobi, made the call on Wednesday during a handover ceremony at the Command’s headquarters in Awka, where he assumed office from the outgoing Commandant, Mr Gabriel Anikwen.
Edokobi, an Assistant Director, also urged staff members to improve productivity, demonstrate commitment and adopt a proactive approach to their responsibilities to strengthen the Commission’s operations and copyright enforcement.
He described leadership as a responsibility that could be entrusted to any member of staff when the opportunity arose, stressing the need for cooperation and institutional continuity.
“It was the turn of the former Commandant yesterday, today I have taken charge and tomorrow it could be anyone else.
“I ask for your support and cooperation for the overall benefit of the Commission and its stakeholders,” he said.
The new commandant also called on stakeholders in literary works, sound recordings, audiovisual productions, broadcasts and other copyright-related sectors to strengthen their partnership with the Commission.
He assured copyright owners, creative industry practitioners and performers that their intellectual property would receive priority attention and adequate protection under his leadership.
“I want to assure all stakeholders that their works and performers will receive the necessary attention and protection,” he said.
To strengthen enforcement, Edokobi specifically sought closer cooperation with the Nigeria Customs Service, Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) and National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA).
Other agencies he identified for collaboration include the Nigeria Immigration Service, Nigeria Police Force, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU), Department of State Services (DSS) and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).
The Commission’s renewed focus on inter-agency cooperation is aimed at strengthening the fight against activities that undermine copyright protection and the rights of creators and other owners of intellectual property.
Recall that the Director-General of the NCC, Dr John Asein, approved Edokobi’s transfer to Anambra in mid-September 2026 as part of efforts to strengthen the Commission’s presence and operations in the state.
The Anambra Command also exercises jurisdiction over Delta State.
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The Nigerian Copyright Commission is a Federal Government agency responsible for copyright administration, enforcement and prosecution of copyright-related offences in Nigeria.
Its operations are guided by the Copyright Act, 2022, which provides the legal framework for protecting copyright and related rights in the country.
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