In a deliberate move to safeguard her God-given talents and preserve the fruits of her creative labour, renowned gospel music minister Evangelist (Dr.) Funmi Aragbaiye, has paid an official visit to the Oyo State Coordinator of the Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC), Ibadan Office, Mrs. Oluropo Oke.
The visit was centered on the formal notification and documentation of Dr. Aragbaiye’s evergreen gospel music works, a step aimed at protecting her intellectual property and ensuring that her musical legacy is properly secured under Nigerian copyright law.
Evangelist Dr. Funmi Aragbaiye, whose ministry through music has touched lives across Nigeria and beyond, emphasized the importance of intellectual property protection in the gospel music industry.
According to her, creativity is a divine gift that deserves not only spiritual appreciation but also legal recognition and protection, especially in an era where artistic works are easily reproduced and distributed without authorization.
Speaking during the visit, Dr. Aragbaiye noted that her decision to officially notify the Nigerian Copyright Commission was inspired by the need to preserve the originality, ownership, and long-term benefits of her musical compositions. She described her songs as “evergreen messages of hope, worship, and spiritual revival,” adding that safeguarding them would ensure that the message remains intact and that future generations can continue to benefit from them lawfully.
Mrs. Oluropo Oke, the Oyo State Coordinator of the Nigerian Copyright Commission, who warmly received Evangelist Dr. Aragbaiye, commended her foresight and professionalism.
“We recieved Dr Funmi Aragbaiye at our Ibadan office since she desired to know about the activities of the Nigerian Copyright Commission and to seek more knowledge about the commission’s roles in intellectual efforts and property.
“We were able to address the aspect of copyright infringement, and sensitized her on owners right among others, her visit was a welcome development, she added.
Mrs Oke applauded the gospel music minister for setting a positive example for other gospel artistes, content creators, and ministers who often overlook the legal aspect of their creative works.
Mrs. Oke explained that the Nigerian Copyright Commission remains committed to protecting the rights of authors, musicians, and creative professionals, while also educating the public on the importance of copyright compliance.
She encouraged artistes to take advantage of the Commission’s services to secure their works and prevent infringement.
Mrs Oke also encouraged authors and intellectuals in the industry to collaborate with the commission in order to work together for them to get the rewards for their intellectual efforts.
“Last year, I was at a seminar at the Nigeria Union of Journalist (NUJ), Ibadan Council to educate them on what the copyright is all about, and that they should come for notification and its process in order to protect and safeguard their property and efforts.”
The meeting also featured discussions on the broader benefits of copyright notification, including access to rightful royalties, legal backing in cases of infringement, and the preservation of creative heritage.
Dr. Aragbaiye expressed her gratitude to the NCC for their guidance and support, describing the process as enlightening and reassuring.
This landmark visit underscores Evangelist Dr. Funmi Aragbaiye’s commitment not only to spreading the gospel through music but also to promoting excellence, accountability, and sustainability in the ministry. By taking proactive steps to protect her intellectual efforts, she has reinforced the message that faith and professionalism can—and should—go hand in hand.
As gospel music continues to grow as a powerful tool for evangelism and social impact, Dr. Aragbaiye’s action serves as a timely reminder that creators must value, protect, and manage their works wisely. Her visit to the Nigerian Copyright Commission stands as a testament to responsible stewardship of divine inspiration and creative expression.
