MultiChoice Group Welcomes NBC Directive on Content Rights, Retransmission

MultiChoice Group, a CANAL+ Company, expressed satisfaction with a recent directive from Nigeria’s National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) on November 2, 2026. The directive reaffirms the rules around intellectual property rights and the retransmission of audiovisual content in Nigeria. This directive fortifies a basic principle of broadcasting: merely having access to another operator's signal does not grant the right to retransmit or commercially redistribute that content.

It makes clear that operators must acquire the necessary rights and permissions before retransmitting content, and that unauthorized retransmission is a violation of intellectual property rights. Kemi Omotosho, CEO of MultiChoice Nigeria, welcomed the directive, stating that it is a significant step towards protecting content creators and rights-holders and establishing a more orderly and sustainable broadcasting market.

The Group believes that a clear and predictable regulatory framework benefits everyone involved, including creators, rights-holders, operators, and audiences. It supports investment in local content, fostering long-term value for all parties involved. The directive provides crucial regulatory guidance to the broadcasting industry and underscores the importance of respecting intellectual property rights, promoting fair competition, and maintaining a level playing field for legitimate operators.

MultiChoice Group reiterated its dedication to upholding the protection of intellectual property rights and the sustainable growth of Africa’s creative industries. The Group pledged to continue collaborating with regulators and industry partners to promote legitimate content distribution and strengthen the long-term sustainability of the audiovisual sector.