The Ghanaian government has announced plans to take tough action against television stations found broadcasting Nigerian films without the permission of copyright owners, in a renewed effort to combat piracy and protect the creative industries of both Ghana and Nigeria.
According to Ghana’s National Film Authority (NFA), the move follows persistent complaints from Nigerian filmmakers that some television stations in Ghana have been illegally downloading Nollywood movies from online platforms, including YouTube, and airing them without obtaining the required broadcast licences or paying royalties.
According to Daily Post, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the NFA, James Gardiner, acknowledged that copyright infringement remains a major challenge in Ghana’s broadcasting industry but said the authority is working with relevant state institutions to strengthen enforcement against offending broadcasters. Gardiner disclosed that the NFA is considering stricter licensing regulations, including requiring all television stations to reapply for their broadcasting licences by 2027. Under the proposed framework, stations found violating copyright laws risk losing their licences or facing other regulatory sanctions.
READ: Africa: Ghana Welcomes Planned Return of 2,000 Looted Artefacts from Germany and Netherlands
The crackdown was prompted by complaints from Nollywood producer Uchenna Mbunabo, who accused some Ghanaian television stations of profiting from Nigerian films without securing the necessary rights from producers and copyright holders. He alleged that broadcasters routinely download movies from YouTube and transmit them free of charge, depriving filmmakers of legitimate revenue. Gardiner noted that while enforcement has become more complex because some broadcasters operate through digital platforms and satellite services, the government remains committed to protecting intellectual property and ensuring that broadcasters comply with copyright laws.
The planned measures have been welcomed by stakeholders in Nigeria’s film industry, who have long identified piracy as one of the biggest threats to Nollywood’s growth and profitability. Industry observers say stronger enforcement in Ghana could improve collaboration between the two countries’ film industries while ensuring that producers receive fair compensation for their work.
Nollywood is one of Africa’s largest creative industries and a major contributor to Nigeria’s economy. The latest action by Ghanaian authorities is expected to reinforce regional efforts to protect intellectual property rights and promote sustainable growth within the African film and television sector.
