The Performing Musicians Association of Nigeria (PMAN) says the newly signed copyright act will aid the growth of the country’s creative sector.

President Muhammadu Buhari signed the Copyright Bill of 2022, which repeals the Copyright Act of 2004, into law on March 17.

The new act is to plug the gaps in the administration of copyright within the digital environment.

NAN reports that Pretty Okafor, the PMAN president, describes the new law as a “welcome development”.

Okafor, in a statement, said the act will promote creativity and encourage artistes to be more productive.

The PMAN head expressed gratitude to Buhari and Abubakar Malami, the minister for justice.

“Buhari has demonstrated unalloyed commitment to the growth of Nigerian music and entertainment,” he said.

“This noble gesture will not only have a positive impact on the nation’s creative sector, but it would also rub off greatly on the economy.”

Okafor commended the efforts of John Asein, the director-general of the Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC).

He hailed local musicians and actors who accompanied him to defend the bill during its public hearing.

The president called on content creators and users to support Buhari’s gesture to ensure that the initiative works.

“I equally appeal to all music pirates and unauthorized creative content users to desist from their nefarious activities, as it would not be business as usual with this new copyright amendment bill,” Okafor added.