ABSTRACT
The objectives of Intellectual Property Law are the recognition and protection of the private interest and ownership in creations, invention and all other intellectual works. It is also to provide access to these works and inventions to the public through appropriate regulations. These rights have caused the owners to lose the fruits of their labor amounting to millions of naira and great loss to the society and the economy.
These rights are protected by different laws against all forms of exploitation that amounts to infringement. Infringement of copyrighted works has negative effect on creations/inventions, hence, the need for the regulations to protect it. Several agencies and laws have therefore been created/enacted to combat infringement of copyrighted works in Nigeria. This has given birth to several agencies. Among them are the Nigerian Copyright Commission, which administers the Copyright Act 2004, the National Film and Video Censors Board, which also plays a critical role in the administration of copyright in the entertainment industry.
The Copyright Act 2004 provides for the enforcement of civil and criminal proceedings against infringers of owners' right. The study will find out whether the available laws and regulations are able to provide required remuneration for right owners. The available regulations will be appraised. This will be done by examining the Copyright Act 2004 and the Copyright Regulations 2007.
The study will further contribute to knowledge by recommending ways to improve the activities of the agencies administering the Copyright Act 2004 and other regulations. The study will recommend a review of the regulations and the strengthening of the management structure through training and appointment of professionals. It will also recommend more stringent punishment for infringers to combat the menace, and improve the society's well-being.
