COSON Nigeria

12/09/2025

UNFORGETTABLE!

Watch the full video of the much talked about fabulous Red Carpet Send-Forth Party for the retiring COSON iconic GM, Mrs Bernice Eriemeghe Ashibuogwu.
Unforgettable!
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UNFORGETTABLE!Watche the full video of the much talked about fabulous Red Carpet Send-Forth Party for the retiring COSON iconic GM, Mrs Bernice Eriemeghe A...

10/09/2025

OKOROJI PROMISES THAT GOV OTU OF CROSS RIVER STATE WILL SEE COSON EVERYWHERE, WHILE HE IS AWAKE AND WHILE HE IS ASLEEP!

Chief Tony Okoroji, Chairman, Copyright Society of Nigeria (COSON), Nigeria’s biggest copyright collective management organization, has promised that very soon, the Governor of Cross River State, Mr. Bassey Otu, will see COSON everywhere. Said Chief Okoroji: “Governor Otu will see COSON while he is awake; he will see COSON while he is asleep; he will see COSON in his dreams. We will not let him forget, for one day, that every public official and every government has an obligation to obey the orders of our courts.

“What we are doing with the Cross River State government is historic. It is a critical test case. Let us uphold the legal profession in Nigeria and defend the powers of Nigerian judges and Nigerian courts. It is about time we found out whether the whole legal system in Nigeria is a joke. Do Nigerian judges who spend countless hours, days, weeks, months and even years adjudicating complex cases, toiling in vain? Is their service meaningless? Are the billions we spend training lawyers and judges and funding the judicial system, wasted money?

“Cross River State Government is not above the law. Without any further delay, the government must pay the 500 million Naira debt it owes COSON by the orders of both the Federal High Court and the Court of Appeal. We will not let them dodge their obligation or manipulate their way out of it. Let me be clear: every Nigerian, whether in government or not, has a duty to ensure that this nation upholds the rule of law and does not slide into anarchy. If we do not, the consequences will be too grave to imagine”

Chief Okoroji was speaking to some Nigerian creatives at Freedom Park, Lagos on Sunday, September 7, following the big launch of the book, “The Man Righteousman – the Hidden Gem” and the presentation of Righteouman’s new album, “24/7”, an event which was stormed by the kingpins of Nollywood, top names in the Nigerian music industry and family and friends of the celebrant.

After a review of the book done by renowned gospel music minister, Buchi Atonwu, Chief Okoroji who unveiled the 150-page book alongside Mr Idris Aregbe, the Senior Special Adviser on Arts, Culture & Tourism to Governor Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State, declared that Righteousman is a creative genius, always at work 24/7. He recommended the book to everyone to read saying that he was sure there are a lot of lessons to be learnt from the book.

In the words of Chief Okoroji: “In the last several years, I have worked with Righteousman on the COSON Board. In an environment where most people are only interested in taking, Righteousman is ever ready to give… always available to contribute his enormous talents and skills to the good of everyone which is why this venue is filled to the brim.

“During the period, I must have met Righteousman at least one hundred times. I am not sure that I have seen him up to five times without Carol Cee, his wife and “Champion Lover” by his side. Almost inseparable! They are a great source of inspiration that makes you understand that being married and being Christian are not old fashioned. Oh, it can be a lot of fun!”

Between Mr Aregbe, some of his friends and Chief Tony Okoroji, they bought 200 copies of the book for an undisclosed amount.

At the event attended by several members of the COSON Board were the COSON retiring General Manager, Mrs. Bernice Eriemeghe Ashibuogwu and Acting General Manager, Mr. Vincent Adawaisi.

02/09/2025

OKOROJI DECRIES THE RE-INTRODUCTION & PROMOTION OF TRIBAL & ETHNIC DIVISIONS & HATE.

As part of his “No Music Day”, live broadcast on September 1, Chief Tony Okoroji, Chairman, Copyright Society of Nigeria (COSON), called on Nigerian creatives to call out any person engaged in brewing the treacherous liquor of tribal and ethnic intolerance and hate which he says led Nigeria to the past civil war that took the lives of millions of Nigerian citizens.

Chief Okoroji, in the broadcast, streamed across the globe, touched on several issues bedeviling the country and posited that they are all rooted in what has become a sordid national culture of corruption and flagrant disrespect of the people in power for the rule of law.

In the broadcast, the former President of PMAN and best known activist for the rights of creative people on the African continent, said: “Yes, I very much recognize the deep despair in the land, the hunger that threatens the life of millions of Nigerians, the insecurity that has snatched the lives of so many of our countrymen and the anguish under which many Nigerians wake up in the morning and go to bed at night.

“Nigerian creatives cannot afford to give up on Nigeria. We must work together for the unity of our country and the progress of our nation. We have again begun to witness the dangerous re-introduction and promotion of very treacherous tribal and ethnic divisions and hate, some of the reasons that incubated the past civil war which brought horror to many of our countrymen and sent millions of our citizens to their death. We must not let this happen again to Nigeria. I call on Nigerian creatives to call out any person engaged in brewing this treacherous liquor of intolerance and hate.

“We must contribute to making Nigeria a nation in which our people, from the East, West, North and South, appreciate that our different languages do not mean different destinies. We must ensure that we use our music, our movies and skits; our literature, postings and the contents we publish, not to create suspicion and distrust but let our people know that though we might practice different religions, we worship the same God.


“On this “No Music Day 2025”, I pray for all Nigerians who are going through trials, tribulations and hardship and beg the Almighty to please meet their needs. God bless the Nigerian Creative Industry and God bless the great people of Nigeria”.

02/09/2025

OKOROJI MOURNS FORMER IGP, SOLOMON ARASE

Chairman, Copyright Society of Nigeria (COSON), Nigeria’s biggest copyright collective management organization, Chief Tony Okoroji, has paid glowing tribute to Dr. Solomon Arase, former Inspector-General of Police and former Chairman of the Police Service Commission who is reported to have passed on in Abuja on August 31.

Said Chief Okoroji: ”I nearly froze and lost it, when on the car radio, I heard of the death of Dr Arase, a fantastic Nigerian citizen. I was on my way to COSON House in Ikeja, to do the September 1, “No Music Day” broadcast when the news came through. Upon coming out of the shock, I recalled that it was exactly 10 years to the date, September 1, 2015, that IGP Solomon Arase gave me an exceedingly warm reception, when I led a COSON delegation to his office at Police Headquarters Abuja, and we became very good friends thereafter and spoke on the phone constantly.

“When he left as IGP, we were both scheduled to address an NBA conference in Lagos on the same day. After delivering my paper, I waited to listen to him. I was left with no doubt that the NBA could not have chosen better. Solomon Arase had superb intellect”.

Chief Okoroji described Dr Arase as “a great patriot, a totally committed public servant, a detribalized Nigerian and one of the most pleasant persons I ever met”.

Said Okoroji: “Solomon Arase was an exceptional patriot and lover of the Nigerian nation, a polished policeman, a consummate administrator, and a very good man. With the passing of Arase, the Nigerian nation has lost an irreplaceable son”.

17/08/2025

COSON DECLARES “TOTAL WAR” ON CROSS RIVER STATE GOVT OVER UNPAID 500 MILLION NAIRA DEBT

The full Board of Copyright Society of Nigeria (COSON), Nigeria’s biggest copyright collective management organization, this Tuesday, August 12, 2025, rose from an intensive meeting at the Boardroom of the magnificent COSON House in Ikeja, determined to ensure the continued stability, progress and success of the organization and the respect for the rights of its members across Nigeria

One of the many important decisions taken by the meeting was the resolution to declare “total war” on the government of Cross River State for its failure or refusal to pay a debt of 500 million Naira awarded to COSON against the state government by the Federal High Court since 2018 which judgment the state government appealed against and still lost to COSON.

Observed the Board meeting: “the Cross River State Government is displaying the kind of recklessness and lawlessness a democratically elected government should never contemplate. We are not asking Governor Bassey Otu for a gift or a grant. We are asking him to obey court orders. We have followed due process. He is not above the law and has a duty to obey the Orders of two of Nigeria’s most prominent courts, the Federal High Court and the Court of Appeal.

“We have been very patient. We have members in Cross River State and friends from the state who had appealed to us to give the government some time. We have given the governor enough time. We have waited and waited and can no longer wait. Our members are hungry and suffering. The money has significantly lost value. It is clear that our patience has been interpreted as impotence. We have even been informed that the Governor has suggested that since the initial judgment was delivered before he took office, he is under no obligation to pay. With all due respect that is juvenile and pathetic.

“Those who know the governor should tell him that COSON is not impotent. We have never been. Our records show that we know how to fight for our rights. If he wants a fight with us, he will get it in many directions. All we are asking him to do is simple: Obey the Order of Court.

At the meeting, the Board also resolved to express its appreciation to the many persons, including staff, artistes, pastors, designers, technicians, events managers, journalists, bloggers, speakers and guests who contributed their time and talents to making the unforgettable COSON Week 2025 the huge success that it became. The board reiterated the pride of COSON in the fact that none of the eight events scheduled over a seven-day period, was cancelled or postponed and that each event was delivered with absolute panache and professionalism.

The Board at the meeting, approved the application of COSON’s iconic General-Manager, Mrs. Bernice Eriemeghe Ashibuogwu, to proceed on terminal leave at the end of August, prior to her retirement. The Board thanked her for her extra-ordinary contribution to the growth and stability of COSON and approved a scheme for her to continue to play an important role in the activities of the society as a retained consultant, following her retirement as General Manager.

The COSON Board resolved that from September 1, which will once again be celebrated as “No Music Day”, Mr Vincent Adawaisi, the COSON Deputy General Manager will be Acting General Manager until further notice.


Present at the Board meeting presided over by COSON Chairman, Chief Tony Okoroji, were Gospel music minister, Kenny Saint Brown; Ace-drummer and producer, Richard Ayodele Cole; Reggae gospel star, Righteousman Erhabor; Producer and TV host, Nimyel Nansel, better known as Zdon Paporella; Vivacious performer and first daughter of the legendary Ras Kimono, Oge Kimono and well-known Enugu based music toaster and publisher, Sir Angus Power Nwangwu.

Also present were Abuja based music publisher and war horse of the Catholic Charismatic Renewal of Nigeria (CCRN), Chief Uche Emeka Paul, Gospel Music Minister, Evangelist Olusegun Omoyayi; National President of Music Producers and Marketers Association of Nigeria (MUPMAN), Engr Sharon Esco Wilson, COSON General Manager, Mrs. Bernice Eriemeghe Ashibuogwu and COSON Deputy General Manager, Mr Vincent Adawaisi.

Showbiz Impresario, Koffi Idowu Nuel, also known as Koffi Tha Guru, joined the Board meeting from the US, via Zoom. Afro Juju Maestro, Sir Shina Peters, who was recording in London, engaged the meeting on the Board platform.

11/06/2025

Celebrating the birthday of Capt. Sir Shina Peters (SSP) on FLY COSON Flight FC 101 at the COSON Green Ball!

06/06/2025

IT WAS A GLORIOUS WEEK FOR COSON AS NIGERIAN LEADERS SHOWER PRAISE ON THE NATION’S MOST ADMIRED CREATIVE INDUSTRY ORGANIZATION THAT LIT UP LAGOS FOR ONE WEEK WITH THE MANTRA, “NIGERIA WILL RISE AGAIN!”

From Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima; Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo Olu; Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke; Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, Barr. Hannatu Musawa and many of the distinguished speakers, lecturers, preachers and artistes who spoke, preached or performed at the several events of the enchanting COSON Week that lit up Lagos from May 25 to May 31, it was wall-to-wall commendation for the concept of COSON Week 2025 and its hope inducing and uplifting mantra: “Nigeria will rise again!”.

In a speech at the super-exclusive COSON Green Ball, the Vice President’s S.A., Mr. Fegho John Umunubo, said: “It is my profound honour to stand before you tonight on behalf of the Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Kashim Shettima, GCON, at this inspiring COSON Green Ball. On behalf of His Excellency, I extend heartfelt appreciation to the Copyright Society of Nigeria, ably led by Chief Tony Okoroji, and to all who have contributed to making COSON Week 2025 a remarkable success.

“Tonight is more than a celebration. It is a reaffirmation of our shared commitment to those who have built and enriched Nigeria’s vibrant music community. Under this year’s compelling theme, “Nigeria Will Rise Again!”, we gather to honour the voices, lyrics, and melodies that have moved generations of Nigerians—from our early beginnings to our digital present”.

In the same light, Governor Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State said at the Green Ball: “It is a privilege to join you this evening at the COSON Green Ball, the flagship event of COSON Week 2025. This year's theme, "Nigeria Will Rise Again," is a powerful message of hope—an affirmation of our shared belief in the power of culture and creativity to rebuild a stronger, more united nation”.

Starting from the opening event of the Week, the National Day of Prayer on Sunday, May 25, the chant, “Nigeria will rise again!” repeatedly rent the air from the bishops, pastors, the congregation, the gospel singers and Nigerians from villages and towns across the nation and cities across the world. “Nigeria will rise again!” became a uniting theme for the citizens of a nation jointly seeking the face of the Almighty to come to the aid of a people confronting profound challenges.

At the “2025 COSON Lecture”, and “the COSON Mega Jamz” at Freedom Park, “Nigeria will rise again!” became the chorus of most participants. Even Nigeria’s children aged between 10 and 15 years old, who stormed the Headquarters of COSON in Ikeja for “Children’s Day at COSON House” on May 27, the mantra, “Nigeria will rise again!” was continually chanted.

Without question, COSON Week 2025 was a master-class in the design and ex*****on of events. Every single event was targeted at a specific section of the society. All the events were held together by the glue, “Nigeria will rise again!”

The members of COSON across the country, must be exceedingly proud of what their organization has achieved and the wall-to-wall praise that the leadership of Nigeria continues to shower on COSON and its leadership.

06/06/2025

INTERNATIONAL CONFEDERATION OF SOCIETIES OF AUTHORS AND COMPOSERS (CISAC) REGIONAL DIRECTOR FOR AFRICA, MR SAMUEL SANGWA VISITS COSON.

Exciting visit! Samuel Sangwa, the International Confederation of Societies of Authors and Composers (CISAC) Regional Director for Africa, met with COSON General Manager/CEO, Mrs. Bernice Eriemeghe-Ashibuogwu, at the magnificent COSON House yesterday, Thursday June 5 2025. They discussed key industry topics, including AI in music production and copyright levy. Strengthening partnerships for a thriving music industry.

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04/06/2025

LAGOS STATE GOVERNOR, BABAJIDE SANWO-OLU POURS ENCOMIUM ON COSON AND CHIEF TONY OKOROJI AT THE COSON GREEN BALL.

Please read the boundless words of the Governor:

ADDRESS DELIVERED BY MR. BABAJIDE OLUSOLA SANWO-OLU, THE GOVERNOR OF LAGOS STATE, AT THE COSON GREEN BALL, MARKING COSON WEEK 2025, HELD ON FRIDAY, 30TH MAY, 2025 AT SHELL HALL, MUSON CENTRE, ONIKAN, LAGOS.

1.It is a privilege to join you this evening at the COSON Green Ball, the flagship event of COSON Week 2025. This year's theme, "Nigeria Will Rise Again," is a powerful message of hope—an affirmation of our shared belief in the power of culture and creativity to rebuild a stronger, more united nation.

2.Let me begin by saluting the extraordinary leadership of Chief Tony Okoroji, Chairman of COSON. Chief Okoroji's lifelong dedication to intellectual property protection and the dignity of Nigerian musicians, has set a standard for all of us. His work proves that culture and governance can-and must—work together to shape our national destiny.

3.Under his stewardship, COSON has achieved remarkable milestones: from launching Nigeria's first online music Licensing platform, CLAP, to distributing hundreds of millions of naira in royalties to music creators. Even in the face of regulatory and legal challenges, COSON has remained resilient, expanding its reach and deepening its mandate to ensure that every Nigerian musician receives what they are due.

Today, COSON stands as a beacon of transparency and innovation for collective management societies across Africa and the renewal, and rightful reward for all who contribute to the soundtrack of our nation.

4.As the home of Nigeria's creative pulse, Lagos State recognizes COSON as a vital partner in developing our creative economy. Our government continues to strengthen copyright enforcement, empower artistes, and foster innovation through investments in digital infrastructure, talent incubation, and performance spaces. We envision a Lagos where every music producer, guitarist, and vocalist can confidently pursue their craft, knowing their work is protected and valued.

5.The significance of the Green Ball extends beyond celebration. The “green” symbolizes renewal, growth, and sustainability—values that are essential to the future of our creative industry. Tonight, as we gather in unity, let this event remind us of our responsibility to nurture and sustain the creative spirit that drives our nation forward.

6."Nigeria Will Rise Again" is more than a theme-it is a call to action. The music industry, with COSON at its heart, continues to tell our story, lift our spirits, and unite our people. Let us recommit ourselves to building a Nigeria that values its creators, upholds justice, and rises through the strength of its culture.

7.Congratulations to the COSON family, especially Chief Tony Okoroji and his dedicated team, for another successful COSON Week. May the Green Ball continue to shine as a symbol of resilience.

8.Thank you.

Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu
Governor of Lagos State
30th May,2025

02/06/2025

HOW DID THEY DO THIS???

After presenting your passport, obtaining your boarding pass, walking the Green Carpet, and then you are part of the historic take-off of "FLY COSON" Flight FC 101 to Pleasure Land. The COSON Green Ball was amazing!

30/05/2025

Images from the COSON Medical Outreach held at the magnificent COSON House, Ikeja as part of the