United States seeks stronger IP protections to expand music trade with Nigeria

The United States is advocating for stronger intellectual property (IP) frameworks in Nigeria to bolster trade and investment within the country’s rapidly expanding music industry. During a three-day workshop in Lagos titled ‘IP for Growth in Africa: Lagos Music Industry Workshop,’ U.S. officials and industry stakeholders discussed how enhanced copyright protection, effective royalty systems, and stronger enforcement could unlock significant commercial value.

The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) noted that while Sub-Saharan Africa’s music markets have seen double-digit growth for five consecutive years, weaknesses in IP administration and rights collection result in substantial revenue losses. Data from workshops in Nigeria and Kenya indicate that approximately US$286 million in recorded music revenue goes uncollected annually in those two nations.

U.S. Consul General in Lagos, Brandon Hudspeth, highlighted the growing relationship between American music companies—including Universal Music Group, Sony, and Warner Music Group—and Nigerian artists. Strengthening the predictability of Nigeria’s IP regime is viewed as a critical step to attracting more international capital and helping African creators generate more income and employment.