Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has stressed the need for tougher measures against piracy in Nigeria’s entertainment sector, noting that creative professionals should enjoy the full rewards of their efforts.
The governor made the call while speaking at the 12th edition of the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards, where he commended filmmakers, actors, producers and other stakeholders for their role in expanding Nigeria’s entertainment industry.
Sanwo-Olu stated that the achievements of creatives could be undermined if piracy continues unchecked, emphasising that safeguarding intellectual property remains essential to the industry’s economic sustainability.
“All of the great work you’re all doing will amount to nothing if we let piracy take the shine out of all of this,” he said.
“We need to kill piracy in whatever form or shape because we want you all to be economically sound, to have the full economic benefit of your sweat.”
The governor further pledged continued backing from the Lagos State Government for the entertainment industry, while acknowledging that additional efforts are still required to strengthen the sector.
“We haven’t started yet, and I want to give you a commitment that for us in Lagos State Government, we will continue to give you the support,” he added.
The Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards ceremony, which honours outstanding achievements in African film and television, attracted leading entertainers and key industry stakeholders from different parts of the continent.
