On July 20, 2025, the Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC), in collaboration with the Nigeria Internet Registration Association (NiRA), shut down MovieBox.ng, a notorious piracy website that streamed pirated films, music, and live sports content without licenses. The shutdown is a key milestone in Nigeria’s intensified fight against digital copyright infringement and online piracy.
The NCC’s Director-General, Dr. John Asein, stated that MovieBox.ng had been operating through multiple mirror domains to evade detection, a tactic linked to organized piracy networks. The website not only violated copyright laws but also exposed users to risks such as scams, identity theft, and malware infections.
The action has been welcomed by rights holders and stakeholders in Nigeria’s $4 billion entertainment industry, which is projected to grow to $13.6 billion by 2028. The shutdown is part of NCC’s broader campaign “Stand Together Against Online Piracy (STOP),” aiming to protect creative works and ensure a safe digital environment.
Authorities are actively working to take down related mirror sites and have warned the public against accessing illegal streaming websites.
This crackdown underscores Nigeria’s commitment to curbing piracy and supporting growth in its thriving film, music, and broadcast sectors.