MCSN To Phase Out General Distribution Of Royalties From 2026

The Musical Copyright Society Nigeria Ltd/Gte (MCSN) has announced plans to discontinue the general distribution of royalties to its members beginning in 2026.

The decision was communicated in a circular dated November 27 and signed by the Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Mayo Ayilaran, while announcing the royalty distribution for the financial year ended December 31, 2023.

Ayilaran explained that although the revenue realised fell short of the Society’s projection due to non-responsiveness from several users of musical works and sound recordings, the latest distribution reflects the significant increase in membership recorded between the previous cycle and the current one.

He said the Society is preparing to transition from its long-used analogue and general distribution method—where most members received equal payments—to a more equitable, technology-driven specific distribution system.

According to him, the new approach will rely on scientifically generated data, usage logs, and reports from licensees to determine the actual use of members’ works.

“Over the years, due to lack of necessary technology and program or broadcast logs from users of music, distribution of royalties has generally been based on the best judgment of the management,” Ayilaran said. “But with the acquisition of the required technology for gathering and analysing data of used musical works, general distribution will give way to a transparent and equitable system beyond dispute.”

He urged members to prioritise notifying and registering their works on the Society’s designated platforms by logging into the MCSN website or contacting the Membership Department.

Meanwhile, at the 30th anniversary of the Artistes Managers Association of Nigeria (AMAN), held on Wednesday, November 26, at Eko Hotels, MCSN was honoured with an award for its positive impact and contribution to the development of Nigeria’s creative industry.