Role Of Intellectual Property Rights In Safe Guarding Creative Works 

Intellectual Property Rights (IPRs) protect the creative work of filmmakers, including scripts, soundtracks, visuals, and characters. These rights give creators control over how their work is used, shared, and monetized. Owning IP allows filmmakers to license, sell, or collaborate with distributors and platforms on their own terms. It builds trust, protects income, and supports industry growth.

Infringement of Intellectual Property Rights

IP infringement happens when someone uses a filmmaker’s work without permission. This includes unauthorized copying, distribution, or adaptation of films, scripts, or soundtracks. Infringement leads to financial loss and undermines the creator’s legal recognition and ownership.

To protect their work, filmmakers are encouraged to register their scripts and other materials. In Nigeria, the Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC) is the government agency responsible for handling copyright registration and enforcement.

Types of Intellectual Property Rights

Copyright:
This protects original works like scripts, screenplays, music, and film content. It gives the creator exclusive rights to reproduce, distribute, and display the work.

Trademark:
Used to protect brand elements like film titles, production company names, and logos. Trademarks help films and studios build recognition and trust in the market.

Patent:
Though less common in film, patents may apply to new filmmaking equipment or technology developed during production.

Industrial Design:
Protects the visual design of sets, costumes, or specific props if they are unique and artistic.

Trade Secrets:
Refers to confidential processes, formulas, or methods used during production that give a filmmaker or studio a competitive edge.

The Need to Update Copyright Laws

Updating copyright laws is essential in today’s fast-changing digital landscape, especially for filmmakers. As Nollywood and other film industries expand globally and shift towards online streaming, short-form content, and AI-generated works, existing laws often lag behind modern realities.

Traditional copyright laws were built around cinemas and DVDs. But now, with films released directly on platforms like Netflix, Amazon, YouTube, and even TikTok, creators need laws that protect their content across digital platforms and territories.

Modernizing copyright laws helps filmmakers secure their rights in the digital age and unlocks multiple monetization channels. As Nollywood grows, protecting creative work through updated legislation and smart monetization is key to long-term success.

Registering Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) in Other Countries is crucial for filmmakers who want to distribute or protect their creative works internationally. Each country has its own system, but many recognize and protect foreign works under international treaties.