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ABSTRACT
This research is centered on the protection of computer programs and computer-generated works, that is, works stored in digital forms. This work finds that digitization of the 21st century and the development of intellectual property has also come with many new forms of misappropriation of creative works for which reason the Nigerian copyright laws must expand in its scope which will enable the curbing of Infringement of digital works. This research considers the history of software and why it should be protected by also examining among other things, the economic promises of a vibrant software industry in Nigeria. It goes on to expose the lacunas in the Nigerian Copyright law and its ineffectiveness in the protection of digital works. This research discovers that Digital Rights Management is a popular mechanism, employed by developed countries as a viable protection option. Digital Rights Management is critically appraised in this work, discussing the technologies used in the implementation of this protection measure. It discusses the legislations enacted by some countries solely for the protection of software and works stored in digital forms. Finally, this research recommends firstly, that the purchase of pirated versions of software be discouraged and encourages, secondly, the use of Technological Protection measures to restrict unauthorized use of works in digital form. Conclusively, the Nigerian copyright law, although enacted to protect an author’s rights would better assure such protection to the authors of digital works who will enjoy maximum protection by adopting Digital Rights Management.
