The Record Label Proprietors’ Initiative Ltd/Gte (RELPI) has issued a public statement clarifying its position on the administration of sound recording rights and the implementation of the Copyright Levy under the Copyright Act, 2022.
RELPI welcomes the Federal Government’s activation of the Copyright Levy framework as a significant policy step towards compensating rights holders for private copying of creative works. The organisation has consistently supported reforms that strengthen Nigeria’s creative economy, provided such reforms are implemented lawfully, transparently, and in line with established copyright principles.
The purpose of this statement is to clarify key legal and structural issues currently under public discussion, particularly the distinction between musical works and sound recordings under Nigerian copyright law. These rights are separate, owned by different categories of rights holders, and require appropriate and rights-specific representation in any collection or disbursement framework.
RELPI reiterates that the absence of a dedicated sound recording collective management organisation does not confer automatic authority on any existing body to administer sound recording revenues. Any administration of levy funds must be grounded in clear statutory authority or express mandates from the relevant rights holders, in accordance with the Copyright Act, 2022.
As an organisation expressly mandated by record labels and self-producing artists, RELPI represents a significant share of Nigeria’s sound recording market and remains committed to constructive engagement with regulators and stakeholders. The organisation supports collective management systems that are transparent, accountable, and aligned with international best practices, while respecting the distinct nature of different copyright rights.
RELPI’s position is guided by the principles of clarity, lawful representation, transparency, and accountability, which are essential to building a sustainable and trusted royalty ecosystem for Nigeria’s music industry.
The full public statement, issued on RELPI letterhead, is available below.
Download: RELPI Public Statement on Sound Recording Rights and Copyright Levy Administration