Broadcasting
NCC, Customs Impound Two Containers of Over 80,000 Pirated Books Worth N80M at Tincan Port
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC) have impounded two shipping container-loads of 80, 882 pirated educational books, valued at N80 million, belonging to different publishers.
The imported pirated books were intercepted at the Tincan Port in Lagos during a joint operation by the NCS and NCC.
Speaking at a press briefing during the handing over of the confiscated containers at the Lagos Office of the Commission on May 11, 2021, Dr. John Asein, Director General of the Nigerian Copyright Council stated: The seizure should send a clear message to importers of pirated copyright materials and other copyright predators on the resolve of Government to fight piracy on all platforms using every available legislative, regulatory, administrative and policy initiatives.
He continued: “I assure publishers and other copyright owners of our commitment to this campaign, I also implore stakeholder groups, particularly those of publishers, printers, and booksellers to join hands with the Commission to guarantee safe corridors for their works.
“We are aware that many pirates are taking undue advantage of the zero duty on books as these unscrupulous importers now make false declarations either to evade duty or as cover for smuggling.
“Without jeopardizing Government’s policy on ease of doing business, it might therefore be a good time to address the call from some stakeholders for 100% inspection of consignments of books and stationeries in order to check their illicit imports of into the country.”
The seized pirated books include: Macmillan’s Champion Primary Mathematics Books 3 and 4, Fully Revised Edition, Pearson’s New General Mathematics for Junior Secondary School Students, Books 2 and 3 by M. F. Macrea; Learn Africa’s New Concept English Book 3 for Junior Secondary School (Fourth Edition); Learn Africa’s New Concept English Books 1 and 3 for Senior Secondary School (Fourth Edition) by J. Eyisi, A. Adekunle, B. Adepoju, F. Ademola, Q. Adams and J. Eto; Learn Africa’s Nigeria Primary English Book 1 (Third Edition); as well as Children’s Bible Stories, The Beginner’s Bible Stories, a publication of Specialty Books, New York.
Dr. John O. Asein disclosed that about 30 years ago, the Management of the Commission (then the Nigerian Copyright Council) conceived the National Anti-Piracy Campaign.
In his words, “It was a campaign that drew support from individual right owners, right owners associations, relevant State authorities, the Nigeria Police and the Nigeria Customs.
The idea was to harness the collective goodwill, resources and experience of critical stakeholders in tackling what had then been identified as an economic nuisance. Today, the menace of copyright piracy and other abuses have increased significantly into a humongous economic crime and a serious threat to the entire creative industry.”
He added: “It is in light of this that the Nigerian Copyright Commission has, in the last decade, deployed more of its resources to enforcement activities and continues to intensify its anti-piracy operations around piracy hotbeds across the country. This effort has led to the removal of millions of illicit materials –books, software, CDs, DVDs etc. – worth billions of Naira from the channels of commerce, but there is still more ground to conquer.”
The Director-General disclosed further, “Through the combined efforts of NCC and the Nigeria Customs Service, these consignments totaling 80, 882 copies of pirated books belonging to different Nigerian publishers with a market value of over N80 Million, were intercepted at Tincan Port.”
Dr. Asein stated, “Aside from adopting more wholesome business practices, right owners should also embrace proactive business solutions to make it easier for the consuming public and enforcement agencies to identify illicit materials. They should also take advantage of the boarder measure provisions under the Copyright Act and share credible intelligence with the Commission.”
The Director-General reassured right owners, investors and stakeholders across all copyright sectors of Government’s resolve to protect their rights and interest, while promoting congenial business environment to guarantee return on their investments.
“The Commission is committed to strengthening the copyright system for wealth creation, employment generation and ultimately for national economic development as part of a broader Federal Government policy to leverage on the creative and knowledge industry. This is particularly needed in view of the disruptions that have been caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Copyright piracy remains a real threat to the nation and it must not be allowed to thrive”, he stated.
Speaking during inspection and handing over of the intercepted imported pirated books, the Deputy Comptroller, Enforcement, Nigeria Customs Service Tincan Port, Mr. B. N. Obiakulusi re-emphasised NCS commitment to the fight against contraband goods, particularly pirated books being imported into the country through the ports.
Mr. Obiakulusi explained, “Before now, people deal in all these books and like the DG said, you could not differentiate between the original and the pirated copies. However, through our collaboration with NCC, we are able to intercept the pirated books.
“I assure you no pirated book will escape our watch. We are working earnestly to make sure we bring all these things to a stop. I commend NCC DG for his efforts at fighting piracy and his staff for their aptness in searching for pirated books”.
Easter is almost here, and with it comes the perfect opportunity to escape the everyday hustle and embark on a memorable adventure. Whether you’re craving some ‘chilling’ time, quality ‘family’ time, or a ‘pepper dem’ getaway, Nigeria offers endless possibilities for exploration. And the best part? Travelling locally has never been easier or more affordable.
Whether you’re a ‘newbie’ traveller or a seasoned pro, we’ve got you covered with essential hacks that will make your trip a breeze. Say goodbye to stress and hello to smooth sailing as you navigate your Easter getaway like a true travel expert.
Planning your trip is like packing your suitcase – essential, not optional
Just like you wouldn’t leave home without your power-bank (just in case!), don’t head off on a quick trip without a plan. A little prep can save you time, money, and stress — from booking flights and sorting transport, to packing light and right.
Nigeria has endless ways to travel. Flying with local airlines like Air Peace or Ibom Air is quick and budget-friendly, while renting a car gives you the freedom to explore scenic routes like the drive to Erin-Ijesha Waterfalls or the journey to Obudu Cattle Ranch. Not into driving? Buses like Peace Mass or God is Good are easy and affordable. And for a truly luxurious experience, you could even consider a chartered flight – if you’re balling!
Travel like a pro: The art of smart packing
Packing smartly is a crucial travel hack that can save both time and money. Amelia Campher recently shared on TikTok how she organised her hair, beauty, makeup, and personal accessories into different vanity cases and toiletry bags from Temu. Each one perfectly stores her daily essentials, keeping everything neat and accessible. She excitedly told her followers, “This is your sign to buy these bags!” Her clever packing strategy ensures that she’s ready for any trip without unnecessary clutter or stress.
Take Jasmin’s experience, for example. After getting hit with extra carry-on fees on a previous flight, she decided to be smarter about her upcoming family trip. In her search for a solution, she found the perfect backpack on Temu for just under ₦40k. Ticking all the boxes, it avoided extra carry-on fees and allowed her to efficiently pack 16 items plus a makeup bag. When they arrived at the airport, Jasmin’s family breezed through check-in with no issues, their backpacks meeting size requirements perfectly. No extra charges, no stress; just a smooth start to their unforgettable five-day family trip.
Backpacks aren’t just ideal for air travel – they’re also perfect for road trips. Whether you’re cramming your car with family and their belongings or flying high, packing smart and light is essential. A compact, well-organised backpack can make your journey easier, no matter the mode of transport.
To avoid unexpected charges when flying within Nigeria this Easter, it’s crucial to familiarise yourself with airline baggage policies; while Economy Class typically permits 15kg to 20kg of checked luggage, and Premium Economy or Business Class allows up to 30kg, always verify specific weight limits with your chosen airline to prevent costly excess baggage fees, especially if you plan on packing more than the standard allowance.
No passport needed: Pack your bags for a Naija Detty Easter
Why travel halfway across the world when Nigeria has it all? This Easter, skip the long-haul and discover the treasures on your doorstep. From the buzzing streets of Lagos to the ancient city of Benin and the serene hills of Jos, unforgettable adventures are just a short trip away.
By travelling locally, you’re not only creating new memories — you’re also supporting local tourism and helping grow our economy. With so many destinations to explore, there’s something for every kind of traveller. So pack your bags, plan smartly, and make this Easter your best Naija Detty holiday yet.
The heartbeat of Lagos is about to receive a powerful new rhythm as KONFAM 89.5 FM officially launches in Lagos tomorrow, Wednesday.
Kayode Adegbite, founder, KONFAM FM,
KONFAM FM, Kayode Adegbite, brainchild of seasoned entrepreneur and media innovator, is a cutting-edge radio station poised to redefine the broadcasting landscape in Nigeria.
It promises to bring a fresh, tech-driven, and culturally rich approach to radio transmission.
Described as a fusion of technology, creativity, and community, KONFAM FM aims to captivate Lagosians with content that speaks directly to their experiences.
Whether it’s music, news, entertainment, lifestyle, or talk shows, the station is built to reflect the soul of the city and the pulse of its people.
Adegbite is no stranger to transformation.
As CEO of MediaCrush Nigeria Ltd, a leading Out-of-Home (OOH) advertising company, he has spent the past decade revolutionizing how brands engage with audiences across Nigeria.
With over 20 years of experience spanning finance, marketing, and media, he is now channeling his vision into broadcasting.
“KONFAM is not just another radio station,” Kayode said in a pre-launch interview.
“It is a movement, a platform for authentic voices, compelling stories, and meaningful conversations that empower and entertain.”
From its sleek state-of-the-art studio in the heart of Lagos to its impressive lineup of on-air personalities and programs, KONFAM FM is designed to be interactive, engaging, and youth-focused.
Festus Sanmi Onifade, subscriber and legal practitioner, has withdrawn his lawsuit challenging alleged unfair price hikes by MultiChoice Nigeria Limited, filed at the Federal High Court in Abuja.
Also listed as a defendant in the suit is the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC).
In a notice of discontinuance, dated April 1, 2025, the claimant formally informed the court of his decision to wholly withdraw the suit, marked FHC/ABJ/CS/363/2025.
However, the notice, signed by Onifade, did not advance reasons for the withdrawal.
Onifade had earlier approached the court to challenge what he described as an unfair and unjust price increase announced by MultiChoice Nigeria, slated to take effect from March 15, 2025.
In the originating summons, he asked the court to determine, among other things, whether, given Section 128 of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act, 2018, and other relevant laws, the notice of the impending price increase issued by the first defendant was not unfair, unjust, grossly inadequate and a breach of his consumer rights; whether, considering the subsisting appeal in MultiChoice Nigeria Ltd & Ors v. Festus Onifade & Ors, the defendant was not stopped from further increasing the price of its services.
The suit centred on legal tussle between Onifade and MultiChoice over price hikes, which the claimant insisted were being implemented in defiance of regulatory standards and without adequate consumer engagement.
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