World Copyright Day: Commission Vows to Deepen Public Awareness

The Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC) has reiterated its commitment to promoting public awareness of copyright and safeguarding the rights of authors.

The Director-General of the Commission, Dr John Asein, made this known in a statement issued by the Director of Public Affairs, Mrs Ijeoma Egbunike, in Abuja to mark the 2025 World Book and Copyright Day.

The World Book and Copyright Day, observed annually on 23 April, was established by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) to celebrate books and promote reading culture globally.

This year’s theme, “Read Your Way,” underscores the value of reading for pleasure, the freedom to choose books, and the role of copyright in encouraging creativity and protecting literary works.

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Dr Asein emphasised that the celebration reinforces the critical role of books in shaping minds, fostering knowledge, and supporting sustainable development. He noted that books, in both print and digital forms,  remain essential tools for sharing ideas across cultures and generations.

He also highlighted the growing importance of digital technology in broadening access to knowledge and enhancing global readership, especially among young people.

To commemorate the occasion, the NCC launched a year-long initiative under its ABC Action Plan, aimed at promoting reading among children and building respect for copyright. The programme will include activities designed to make reading more enjoyable and to raise awareness of the significance of copyright in nurturing creativity.

Dr Asein called for stronger collaboration among government agencies, partners, and the creative industry to support book development, encourage publishing in local languages, and ensure wider access to reading materials.

Meanwhile, UNESCO has designated Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, as the World Book Capital for 2025, in recognition of the city’s commitment to promoting reading and the literary arts. The designation will run from 23 April 2025 to 22 April 2026.