The Chief Executive Officer of Ghana’s National Film Authority (NFA), Kafui Danku, and the Minister of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovation, Sam George, have assured Nigerian actress and producer Bimbo Ademoye of swift intervention following her complaints about the unauthorized broadcast of her films on Ghanaian television.
Bimbo Ademoye took to Instagram recently to express her frustration over repeated copyright violations, tagging both officials in her post and calling for immediate action. Her post sparked significant public attention and drew support from fellow creatives, reigniting concerns about intellectual property (IP) violations in Ghana’s media landscape.
Sam George responded promptly, acknowledging her concerns and committing to raise the matter with the appropriate authorities. “My attention has been drawn to your post thanks to the tag,” he stated. “I would be raising the issue with my colleague minister responsible for overseeing television content. I wish to assure you that our government is very respectful of intellectual property rights and will ensure the protection of same.”
George also highlighted the importance of cross-border collaboration between Ghana and Nigeria, especially in the entertainment industry, suggesting that mutual respect for IP laws is critical to sustaining this partnership.
Kafui Danku, head of the NFA, also offered reassurance, stating that her team is actively working on the issue. “Hi ma’am, my management and I are working on putting a stop to this. You should see definite actions in a couple of weeks,” she wrote in response to Bimbo’s post.
This isn’t the first time such an issue has surfaced. Several Nigerian filmmakers, including Ruth Kadiri and Omoni Oboli, have previously condemned Ghanaian television stations for airing their movies without licensing agreements. In September 2023, Kadiri issued a public warning and signaled intentions to pursue legal action. Similarly, Omoni Oboli recently voiced her disappointment at Ghanaian stations and criticized the National Film Authority for inaction.
Bimbo Ademoye’s outcry has renewed the spotlight on systemic copyright infringements and has sparked wider conversation among industry stakeholders. Ghanaian actress Juliet Ibrahim has also weighed in, expressing concern over the increasing disregard for copyright within the region.
The situation underscores the need for stronger enforcement of intellectual property laws and deeper collaboration between Ghanaian and Nigerian film regulators to protect the rights of creatives.
As authorities begin to take action, industry watchers hope the growing awareness will bring about meaningful change and ensure that creatives receive fair recognition and compensation for their work, regardless of national boundaries.
