The immediate past deputy governor of Akwa Ibom and pioneer Director General of Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC), Dr. Moses Ekpo, has lauded the Musical Copyright Society Nigeria (MCSN) for its commitment to the ideals of intellectual property, and for opening a branch office in Uyo, the state capital.
Ekpo spoke while receiving the MCSN delegation led by its Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Mayo Ayilaran when they paid him a courtesy visit at his Abak residence in the state recently.
The MCSN delegation was in the state to inspect a new office accommodation provided to the society by the Akwa Ibom state government. Other members of the team included Louis Udoh, General Manager, (Licensing Operations), National Enforcement and Compliance Consultant, Obi Ezeilo, and MCSN’s State Consultant, Dr. Unwana Ibanga.
Ekpo, who recalled the events leading to the formation of the Nigerian copyright system and its evolution, commended MCSN for its commitment in ensuring that creators benefit from their intellectual property, urging the Society to continue operating with transparency and accountability.
“MCSN is getting closer to those who matter – the creators and consumers of music,” he declared.
In his remarks, Ayilaran thanked Ekpo for his role in the development of copyright in Nigeria, and his continued support of the creative industry.
Describing Ekpo as the “father of copyright in Nigeria”, Ayilaran reiterated MCSN’s commitment in ensuring that the vision of having a virile and beneficial copyright system is realized for Nigerian creators.
At the reception were prominent leaders and members of the music industry in Akwa Ibom and Cross River states, including PMAN Akwa Ibom Governor, Comrade (Evang) Joshua Okon Offiong and his Cross Rivers state counterpart, Comrade Efiom Effiong (Rebreed).