AN EXAMINATION OF COPYRIGHT INFRINGEMENT IN NIGERIA AND CHALLENGES IN THE DIGITAL WORLD

Abstract

Copyright protection in Nigeria, particularly with regards to the challenges in the digital world, has become the cornerstone for the protection of the rights of creators of copyrightable works by providing the blueprint as well as the instruments to deal with violations of the law. This research work examines the existing legal and institutional frameworks for the protection of copyright in Nigeria. It also explains lucidly the scope, nature, evolution and qualifications involved in making a particular work eligible for copyright protection as provided under the various regimes. It also exposes the challenges posed in the protection of intellectual property in Nigeria. It has been a serious problem as there has been little or no-well defined measures to bring the infringers of such intellectual properties to book. Also, as a developing country, Nigeria has been battling to find her feet economically, developmentally and most especially, digitally. Another objective of the study was to propose policy measures to address the negative effects of these infringements. Authors and owners of other literary and artistic works were particularly victimized by these violations. These resulted in economic loss, emotional and psychological stress, loss of faith and trust in the Nigerian copyright protection. Specifically, the study highlighted that there was an opportunity to highlight how recovery should not focus on putting an end to copyright infringement but also restore social services and provision of assistance to support the economic recovery of victimized authors and owners of other literary and artistic works. Strengthening mechanisms in place to protect intellectual property rights and promoting measures to achieve long-term rebuilding of faith and healthy intellectual competition, were described as essential steps in preventing further infringement as well as challenges. Overall, the research highlighted the need to respond immediately and have Nigeria stand out globally in protection of copyright protection. The recommendations include efficient measures to protect copyright, socio-economic recovery, bridging the gap between Nigeria and other nations of the world in copyright protection. These strategies, if implemented, will enable the process of healing and will go a long way to protect and promote literary works, and will serve as a catalyst for sustainable development.