Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos has called for a united effort to eliminate piracy in Africa’s entertainment industry, warning that creative talents across the continent may continue to suffer financial losses if intellectual property theft is not decisively addressed.
The governor made the remarks during the 12th edition of the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards 2026 held at Eko Hotels & Suites on Saturday.
Addressing actors, filmmakers, producers and other stakeholders in the creative sector, Sanwo-Olu said Africa’s growing entertainment industry must be protected from piracy to ensure creators enjoy the full rewards of their efforts.
He noted that while Nigerian and African entertainment continue to gain global recognition and influence, piracy remains one of the biggest threats to the industry’s economic future.
“All of the great work you’re all doing will amount to nothing if we let piracy take shine out of all of this,” the governor said.
Sanwo-Olu stressed that intellectual property theft continues to deprive entertainers and creative professionals of legitimate earnings, weakening the long-term sustainability of the industry.
According to him, governments, industry stakeholders and regulatory bodies must work together to tackle piracy in every form and ensure creators are adequately rewarded for their work.
“We need to kill piracy in whatever form, shape, because we want you all to be economically sound, to have the full benefit, full economic benefit, of your sweat,” he added.
The governor further stated that Africa’s creative sector is driven by exceptional talent, innovation and intellectual capacity, but warned that such gifts would lose their true value if creators are unable to benefit financially from their work.
“With all your intellectual capacity, with all your God-given talents, all of that must mean something to you,” he said.
Sanwo-Olu also reassured entertainers and creatives of continued support from the Lagos State Government, promising that his administration would continue to create policies and an enabling environment capable of helping the entertainment industry thrive.
He said Lagos would remain committed to strengthening the creative ecosystem and supporting initiatives that protect artists, filmmakers and entertainers from exploitation.
“I want to give you a commitment that for us in Lagos State Government, we will continue to give you the support,” the governor stated.
The Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards has grown into one of the continent’s biggest entertainment events, celebrating excellence in film, television and digital content while bringing together leading figures from across Africa’s creative industry.
Sanwo-Olu’s remarks come amid increasing conversations around copyright protection, digital piracy and the need for stronger enforcement mechanisms to safeguard Africa’s rapidly expanding entertainment economy.
