US and Nigeria Collaborate on Music Industry Workshop

The US and Nigeria are strengthening their commercial ties in the music industry through a three-day workshop organized by the US Consulate General in Lagos, focusing on Intellectual Property (IP) protection. The workshop, titled “IP for Growth in Africa: Lagos Music Industry Workshop,” gathered over 120 stakeholders, including IP policymakers, lawyers, music executives, artists, and producers.

It aimed to explore how enhanced copyright protection could increase revenues, attract investment, and create jobs within Nigeria’s music sector. US Consul General Brandon Hudspeth emphasized the opportunities presented by the global reach of Afrobeats, stating that the US views Nigeria’s music industry as a significant trade and investment opportunity.

He noted the contributions of American companies like Universal Music Group, EMPIRE, Sony, and Warner Music Group in promoting Nigerian music globally. The workshop was conducted in partnership with the US Patent and Trademark Office and the Recording Academy, involving Nigerian alumni of the American Music Mentorship Programme who shared their insights and networks.