Security operatives in Nigeria have been directed by President Muhammadu Buhari to ensure piracy in Nollywood is defeated.
The President gave this order on Tuesday in Abuja after receiving a briefing from the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Information, Dr Folasade Yemi-Esan and her directors at the Presidential Villa.
He stressed that artiste must start to enjoy the fruits of their labour and ordered law enforcement agencies to intensify efforts in curbing the menace.
Buhari charged security officials to fish out perpetrators of copyright piracy, their sponsors and collaborators, and bring them to justice.
“Nollywood is making progress. We should work with them. Unless they are backed, they will be ruined by pirates who want to reap where they have not sowed. They have built an industry with their own sweat. It is, therefore, incumbent on us to give them the necessary support,” the President was quoted to have said.
This news will surely excite entertainers in Nigeria, who have slammed government for allowing piracy to thrive in the country. Also, the fears being earlier nursed by Nollywood practitioners of being neglected by this administration has been allayed.
The past government of Goodluck Jonathan heavily supported the showbiz industry through grants.
